The TR Series Headstock/Tailstock trunnion set from Motion Index Drives offers an infinitely programmable alternative to the highly precise, zero-backlash VTMF and RT series trunnion indexing systems. This series provides a more cost-effective solution for applications that still demand high standards.


Content Provided By Motion Index DrivesComplete Trunnion Solutions

Available as standard complete headstock and tailstock sets, the TR Series includes a heavy-duty base frame, riser bases, and fixture backbones, ensuring a comprehensive trunnion solution. The low-backlash gear heads enable tooling rotation on a horizontal axis with an accuracy of less than 1 arc minute and can accommodate any servo or AC motor equipped with an encoder. Additionally, a large through-hole allows for the passage of customer-required utilities, including pneumatic, hydraulic, or electric lines. The robust welded steel construction features self-aligning sealed tailstock bearings and custom mounting plates tailored to customer specifications.


Motion Index Drives TR Series Headstock/Tailstock Trunnion Set

Image credit: Motion index Drives

Applications and Benefits

Headstock and tailstock sets are primarily used for weld positioning and assembly. They securely hold long, heavy components, allowing for their rotation, which facilitates welding or assembly tasks.

Advantages:

  • Enhanced Ergonomics: Reduces the risk of accidents and injuries when working with large components.
  • Increased Productivity and Quality: Provides optimal welding angles and allows welders to quickly adjust positions for the next weld.


Key Considerations

When utilized as weld positioners, headstocks and tailstocks are typically oriented horizontally, with the axis of rotation parallel to the floor. For shorter and lighter weldments, it may be feasible to use only a headstock, but this can lead to overhung loads. For heavier or longer components, pairing the headstock with a tailstock helps distribute the load, enhancing safety and extending the lifespan of the equipment. The headstock contains the drives and controls, while the tailstock rotates freely in conjunction with it. For very heavy parts, rollers may be added beneath the weldment for additional support.

Given the critical nature of durability, safety, and productivity, partnering with an experienced headstock/tailstock provider is essential to ensure thorough evaluation of engineering factors. The right provider will assist in selecting appropriate control and drive options, as well as any necessary customizations.

Options Available

  • Special hole patterns in mounting plates on headstock and tailstock
  • Clockwise, counter-clockwise and oscillating index modes of operation
  • Can be ordered as complete assembly with head stock, tail stock and base frame
  • Different gear ratios
  • Customer supplied servo motors – Motion Index Drives to mount
  • Mechanical homing devices
  • Safety locking devices to be used during maintenance and tooling / fixture assembly
  • Variety of encoder or positioning devices


Motion Index Drives TR Series Headstock/Tailstock Trunnion Set

Image credit: Motion index Drives

Industry Applications

The TR Series is ideal for rollover applications in aerospace, automotive, defense, construction, mining, alternative energy, and railroad transportation manufacturing. It is specifically designed for various welding techniques, including laser, spot, MIG, and TIG welding. Integrating the TR Series into your weld cells is straightforward; simply indicate the robot manufacturer being used, and the TR trunnion can be adapted to accommodate virtually any brand.