Published

Video Shows Bar Puller in Action

Automation can bring speed and consistency to many different manufacturing operations. When it can be added with relatively minimal expense, the move seems even more compelling.

Share

Automation can bring speed and consistency to many different manufacturing operations. When it can be added with relatively minimal expense, the move seems even more compelling.

A bar puller can be added to a CNC lathe or turning center for increased productivity through unattended operation. They are far less expensive than bar feeders and are generally easy to set up and use.

The EZ-Puller from Accudyne Corporation (Englewood, Colo.) is a self-adjusting bar puller that allows the programmer or setup person to change bar sizes in the machine without having to manually adjust the tool arms. These arms, in turn, apply force to circular grippers at the ends of the arms. The grippers rotate only under extreme load and have a serration geometry that generates minimal stock penetration while providing strong grip for accurate pull. The bar puller is designed for round, hex and square stock of various sizes.

To set the tool for gripping and pulling barstock, the tool is moved in the Z axis until the grippers are at least 0.150 inch past the end of the stock. Then they are moved in the X axis until the grippers are on centerline with the material being pulled. A standard pull cycle is then initiated.

Video is available showing the bar puller in operation.

RELATED CONTENT

  • Laser Device Helps to Align Bar Feeders

    One of the most common issues affecting bar feeder performance is wear and tear on the bar feeder liner or collet caused by inaccurate alignment between the bar feeder and the lathe.

  • Choosing an Automatic Bar Feeder

    The bar feeder is the most common form of automation for turning operations. Selecting the right one requires consideration of the applications for which it will be used.

  • Line Your Spindles, Line Your Pockets

    Urethane spindle liners present a viable option to steel to fill the gap between spindle ID and bar OD. They protect both the spindle and bar stock and increase machine performance.