Indexing tables are an important part of a material handling system in many industries. Indexing tables are useful for various tasks such as movement of product components for machining, positioning of the components, moving the final products and for movement of tools of a machining center.

Indexing tables are available in different types. Depending on the mechanism of actuation, you can select a pneumatic indexing table, a hydraulic indexing table, a motorized indexing table or a manually operated indexing table. You can also buy auto indexing table or programmable CNC indexing tables for sophisticated automation systems.

Some important parameters you must consider before buying an indexing table are:

1. Application of the indexing table
2. Properties of the components such as material, weight and dimensions
3. Actuating mechanism of an indexing table
4. Type of index tables: a rotary index table or a linear index table
5. Expected life of an indexing table

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Buy an indexing table from reputable manufacturers

Once you know your indexing requirements, check out different industrial indexing tables available on the market.

I recommend: You can buy vertical rotary indexing table at Moore Tool, a reputable manufacturer of industrial machining equipment. If you need a motorized indexing table, check out products offered by Velmex. CDS Corp. manufactures material handling equipment including rotary indexing tables, pallet changers and tool changers. Cyclo-Index is another manufacturer of mechanical index drives.

Buy a programmable indexing table from reputable suppliers

For sophisticated automation systems and CNC machine tools, you need programmable indexing tables. Before buying such product, check the programming features and facilities to update the software.

I recommend: Haas Automation manufactures fully programmable 5C collet indexer. Industrial Motion Control provides rotary indexing tables for various applications such as assembly, welding and packaging. Weiss North America is another manufacturer of cam type index tables. If you need a rotary indexer, check out products offered by Newmark System, a manufacturer of precision positioning systems.

Buy indexing tables from distributors or retailers

You can buy indexing tables from industrial equipment distributors or retailers that offer both new and used tables. Try buying used indexing tables for a cost-effective solution for your requirements.

I recommend: Small Tools, a distributor of used and new industrial components, offers a range of indexing tables. DirectIndustry is another industrial distributor that supplies rotary indexing tables. MSC Industrial Direct offers machining tables and accessories.

Repair your indexing tables from reputable service providers

Improper functioning of indexing table results in problems in machining and material handling. So, repair and service your indexing table by certified service providers.

I recommend: CRV Lancaster is a reputable indexer manufacturer that also offers reconditioning services. For repairs of electronic components of your indexing tables, consult expert team from Test Point. Motion Index Drives is another custom manufacturer of index drives that offers breakdown repairs and maintenance services.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Before refurbishing a machine tool, consult the design engineer about the compatibility and necessary refurbishing of the index table and indexing mechanisms.
• •  If you need an indexing table as a replacement part for your existing automation system or machine tool, check out the compatibility of the indexing table with other mechanisms and equipment.
• •  Keep an inventory of index table parts and accessories such as bolts, screw drives and electronic components.