Rotary Tables
A rotary table is a precision work-positioning device used in metalworking and machining to rotate a workpiece around a fixed axis, enabling operations at exact angles or intervals without repositioning the part manually.
- Indexing: Rotate for evenly spaced features like bolt holes or decorative patterns.
- Multi-sided machining: Machine multiple faces or sides in one setup.
- Complex contouring: Create arcs, radii, helical grooves, and 3D shapes.
- Gear cutting: Divide rotation into equal segments for uniform tooth spacing.
The workpiece is clamped to the disc, and the table is rotated to a set angle (indexing) or continuously for contouring. This “rotate-and-machine” cycle allows for concentric, equidistant, or complex curved cuts.
To help you get the right rotary table, we have a rotary table comparison page.
See our Rotary Tables.
Rotary Table Packages
A rotary table package is a complete setup for a rotary table, including the table itself, work holding devices like a tailstock or lathe chuck, dividing plate, clamping systems, and optional accessories to expand its functionality.
- Rotary Table Tailstock - A rotary table tailstock is used to stabilize the outboard end of a workpiece during machining, ensuring the part’s axis remains parallel to the machine bed and preventing deflection, vibration, or chatter. The tailstock has a movable quill (spindle) that can be extended or retracted to match the workpiece length. The quill holds a Morse taper center or tooling, and the tailstock’s center height is matched to the rotary table’s center height for proper alignment.
- Rotary Table Dividing Plate - A rotary table dividing plate is an accessory that allows you to precisely divide a 360° circle into equal parts for indexing operations.
It works by mounting on the rotary table’s handwheel or crank handle, replacing the standard degree dial. The dividing plate’s primary purpose is to enable accurate, repeatable positioning of the rotary table so that workpieces can be rotated in exact angular increments. This is essential for:
- Creating bolt circles (equally spaced holes around a circle)
- Milling gears (equal spacing of teeth)
- Producing polygons (regular shapes with equal sides)
- Drilling or milling at specific angular intervals for complex patterns
The plate has a series of hole circles (e.g., 15-hole, 28-hole, 60-hole) arranged in concentric rings. When the crank handle is turned, the sector arms move the table a set number of holes, which corresponds to a precise angular advance. The number of turns and holes to advance is calculated based on the rotary table’s worm gear ratio (commonly 40:1 or 90:1) and the desired division.
- Rotary Table Lathe Chuck - A rotary table 3-jaw or 4-jaw lathe chuck with proper adapter is used to Secure workpieces during rotation, ensuring stability and precision.
- Clamping Kits & T-Nuts Include flange nuts, tee nuts, and step blocks for mounting fixtures or clamps to the table
- Optional Fixtures & Vises for Providing secure, repeatable work holding for milling, drilling, or contouring.
We offer a number or rotary table packages with or without a 3-jaw or 4-jaw chuck to meet just about every machining need.