Self Centering Steady Rest

[rupp]

I am trying to design a self centering steady rest. I have seen some drawings of the ATLING steady rest. Although our company is trying to design our own. We are looking to hold 8" to 1.5" pipe. If anyone could give me any tips or sources for design suggestions, it would really help.

 

[CMfgE1]

Actually I worked for a french-canadian tool maker who designed a steady rest (self centering-pneumatically actuated) for lathes. He then proceeded to design a bar feed system using this same rest to hold the material and feed it as well. I suggest you search the patent office. The drawings will be available there and would be an excellent start. This way you dont infringe on patents but can achieve the same goal. Basically the rest is a two piece system with a pneumatically actuated cylinder to provide movement. In the center are three cam style arms that actuate in (towards the center) and out (outside of the I.D. of the rest) with the cylinder. Attached to the arms are bearings. Bearing choice is critical depending on the material to be supported and the RPM at wich the work will be turned.

It sounds complicated but once you see a drawing it should be clear. The US paent office will have them on file. This can be done over the internet as well.


Good Luck