Abstract: A gang tooling is disclosed for a lathe having a main spindle with an axis of rotation, a longitudinal carriage movable along a z-axis parallel to the spindle axis and a cross-slide carried by the longitudinal carriage and movable along a x-axis transverse to the spindle axis. The gang tooling comprises a longitudinal plate for removably securing to the cross-slide. The plate has a dovetail mortise and a wedge that cooperates with a dovetail tenon on the cross-slide for removably securing the plate to the cross-slide. The plate has a dovetail tenon for cooperating with a dovetail mortise in a plurality of tool holders for removably securing the tool holders to the plate. The plate can be removed from the cross-slide without disturbing and removing the tools installed on the plate, thereby permitting the tool holders to remain secured to the plate at their original relative positions.

Abstract: A process for replicating a surface on a machine base support surface relative to a reference surface, comprising the steps of providing a reference surface on the machine base; providing a fixture having a surface; positioning the fixture surface over the support surface to a predetermined position in close proximity to the support surface so that a gap is maintained between the fixture surface and the support surface; adjusting the fixture surface relative to the reference surface such that the fixture surface is precisely parallel with the reference surface; filling the space between the fixture surface and the support surface with flowable hardenable substance; permitting the substance to cure; removing the fixture.

Abstract: A headstock cooling system for a machine tool comprising a base having a top, bottom and a first fluid passageway extending centrally therethrough from the top to the bottom. A bed is mounted on the base top and provided with a second fluid passageway extending coaxially from the first fluid passageway and in fluid communication therewith. A headstock is mounted on the bed and is positioned coaxial with and directly above the second fluid passageway and includes means for communication with the second fluid passageway for directing a cooling fluid from the second fluid passageway out of the headstock thereby cooling the headstock over at least a substantial portion of the headstock.

Abstract: A finished parts catcher for an automatic machine having a workholder and a part cut-off means comprising a finished part receptacle or chute positioned beneath the workholder; piston and cylinder means for imparted movement to the receptacle, the piston and cylinder means has first and second ends; the receptacle being positioned from the first end of the piston and cylinder means; at least one connecting rod extends between and is attached to the receptacle and the second end of the piston and cylinder means; means for limiting travel of the connecting rod and a control means to actuate the piston and cylinder means thereby simultaneously moving the connecting rod and causing the receptacle to move to a position beneath the workholder prior to release of the finished part so as to catch the finished part when released from the workholder. The caught finished part is directed to a parts basket from which it can be easily removed while the automatic machine is cycling.

Abstract: A break away machine tool assembly includes a support to which a bearing plate is pivotally mounted in overlying and contiguous relation. A tool element overlies and is contiguous the plate and is movable therewith. Securement elements releasably secure the plate and the tool element in overlying relation to the support for permitting the plate and the tool element to move relative to the support within a defined range upon being subjected to an impact.

Abstract: This invention pertains to a head stock assembly for a chucker and bar machine which includes a special bearing system comprising three forward bearings and two rearward bearings for providing five point contacts to the spindle for maintaining stiffness and rigidity and improved accuracy in machining. It also includes cooling fin means for dissipating the heat about the bearings which would normally build up in a headstock after long periods of operation. The heat dissipation reduces growth of the headstock and therefore improves accuracy. In addition, the headstock assembly has mounted directly thereon a spindle encoder, a brake disc, a collet closer mechanism, a balancing disc, as well as a low pressure means for preventing cutting fluids and dust and dirt from entering into the bearing mechanism.