Abstract: The present invention is directed to an apparatus for receiving a cylindrical workpiece and centering that workpiece on a central axis of an elongated support frame. An overhanging machine slides along parallel rails spaced equidistantly from the central axis and enables a machine bit aligned with the central axis to contact the cylindrical workpiece at points located precisely along its apex. Because the machine is moveable relative to the stationary workpiece, the apparatus eliminates a need complex fixturing and increases throughput while enabling repeated accurate alignment of a moving machine bit with the apex of the cylindrical workpiece centered on and lying along the central axis.