Bar Feeder Uses Double-Pusher for Shorter Footprin

Edge Technologies offers its Scout 320 as an economical magazine bar feeder for feeding round, square and hexagonal barstock to CNC lathes in diameters ranging from 3 to 20 mm and in lengths ranging to 12 ft. It features robust construction with heavy-gauge structural steel that ensures rigidity and long term durability. A double-pusher system reduces the overall length of the machine. A short pusher pre-feeds the bar, then retracts; a second, full-length pusher lowers into position afterward to continue the feeding process. The pusher system is propelled by a toothed belt for accuracy and smooth, quiet operation.

For use with Swiss-type machines, the feeder’s synchronization device employs an electromagnetic coupling, mechanically linking the lathe headstock’s Z-axis travel to the bar feeder’s pusher to ensure synchronous movement and no loss of connection between the barstock and pusher collet.

Dual anti-vibration devices stabilize the barstock at two critical points between the guide channel and lathe spindle, maximizing rpm potential. Its adjustable roller design provides support and eases setup of all bar diameters without the cost of multiple bearing blocks.

The Scout features hydrodynamic, quick-change polyurethane guide channels. An extruded aluminum case surrounds the guide channels, increasing strength and stability. The channel is flooded with oil to create a hydrodynamic effect to support the rotating bar, enabling operation at higher rpm with reduced noise and vibration. The top guide channel is profiled for all barstock sizes, while the U-shaped bottom guide channel sections slide easily out of the base for channel size changes. Operators need only insert a new section and tighten a screw.

The feeder features a remote control pendant with a Mitsubishi control for the machine’s servodrive. Functions include manual and automatic operation; manual load/unload of barstock for set-up and/or change over; movement of bar pusher; and emergency stop. Parameters are set through simple F functions. The control is easy to program, yet flexible enough for all applications, the company says.