05/12/2025 By CNCBUL UK EDITOR Off

What is Adjustable Universal-Round Type Multi-Spindle Drilling-Tapping Head?

An Adjustable Universal-Round Type Multi-Spindle Drilling–Tapping Head is a precision mechanical attachment used in metalworking to perform multiple drilling and tapping operations simultaneously in a single machine cycle. It is designed to increase productivity, ensure hole-to-hole accuracy, and reduce machining time on drilling machines, tapping machines, CNC machining centers, and special-purpose machines.

Below is a technical explanation suitable for the industrial metalworking sector:


Technical Definition

An Adjustable Universal-Round Type Multi-Spindle Drilling–Tapping Head is a modular spindle distribution system that receives rotational power from a single machine spindle and transmits it to multiple synchronized output spindles arranged on a circular (round) faceplate.
Each output spindle can be independently positioned within its adjustment range, allowing different hole patterns to be machined without redesigning or replacing the head.


Key Technical Components

1. Input Drive Assembly

  • Connects to the main machine spindle via a shank or flange.
  • Transfers torque to the internal gear system.
  • Must maintain precise coaxial alignment to avoid vibration and tool wear.

2. Internal Gear System

  • A high-precision set of hardened gears and pinions that distribute rotational motion equally to all output spindles.
  • Gear ratios may vary depending on drilling or tapping requirements (1:1, speed-up, speed-down).
  • Ensures synchronous rotation of all spindles, critical for tapping operations.

3. Adjustable Output Spindles

  • Multiple spindles arranged radially on a circular housing.
  • Each spindle slide can be adjusted radially, allowing:
    • Customizable hole spacing
    • Different bolt-circle diameters
    • Non-symmetrical hole patterns (within limits)
  • The spindle bearings are high-precision to handle drilling and tapping axial loads.

4. Universal Round Plate (Faceplate)

  • A circular mounting plate that holds the adjustable spindle slides.
  • Supports symmetric or asymmetric hole patterns.
  • Allows quick mechanical reconfiguration for different parts.

5. Coolant and Lubrication Channels

  • Internal coolant delivery system to improve chip evacuation and tool life.
  • Gearbox lubrication (oil bath or grease) ensures long-term accuracy.

What It Does in Metalworking

1. Multi-Hole Drilling

It drills several holes simultaneously with precise spacing—ideal for flanges, gearboxes, automotive components, and general production machining.

2. Synchronous Tapping

Multiple taps cut internal threads in one pass.
Because all spindles rotate synchronously, thread pitch accuracy is maintained across all holes.

3. Repetitive High-Volume Production

The system is optimized for:

  • Fast cycle times
  • Consistent positional accuracy
  • Reduced operator dependency

Common applications include:

  • Bolt circle layouts
  • Hydraulic/pneumatic manifold blocks
  • Bearing housings
  • Machine tool subcomponents

Advantages in Industrial Machining

✔ Significant Productivity Increase

Multiple tools cut at the same time, dramatically reducing machining cycle time.

✔ High Positional Accuracy

Hole centers remain consistent because the spindle spacing is mechanically fixed after adjustment.

✔ Flexible Adjustment

The universal round layout allows:

  • Different diameters
  • Custom hole patterns
  • Multi-step drilling–tapping sequences

✔ Reduced Tool Wear

Balanced load distribution and synchronized rotation minimize vibration.

✔ Cost Efficiency

Eliminates the need for custom fixtures or dedicated drilling stations.


Technical Considerations for Use

1. Machine Compatibility

  • Must ensure the host machine’s spindle horsepower, torque, RPM, and rigidity suit the multi-spindle head.
  • Excessive spindle load must be avoided to protect gears and bearings.

2. Tool Length Matching

All tools must have uniform projection length to ensure simultaneous contact and correct hole depth.

3. RPM Limits

Due to gear train constraints, max RPM is often lower than a direct machine spindle.
Higher RPM applications require special gear ratios.

4. Axial Feed Requirements

  • Drilling feed: constant axial feed by machine
  • Tapping feed: must match pitch
    • Either by synchronous feed control (in CNC)
    • Or through mechanical compensators

5. Workpiece Clamping

Rigid clamping is essential—multi-spindle thrust forces are significantly higher than single-spindle drilling.


Summary (Technical)

An Adjustable Universal-Round Type Multi-Spindle Drilling-Tapping Head is a precision gear-driven, radially adjustable spindle system that converts one machine spindle into multiple synchronized spindles. It provides high-accuracy, high-speed, multi-hole drilling and tapping capabilities for industrial metal-cutting operations, improving productivity and consistency in medium- to large-batch production environments.