When Norwich-based Haas Automation Ltd (www.haas.co.uk) introduced the Servo Bar 300 bar feeder in 1999, it was an immediate success thanks to its compactness, ease of use and affordability. Haas has now redesigned the unit to make bar-feeding operations more efficient and faster.

The Haas Bar Feeder has been designed as a heavy-duty yet compact unit for use exclusively with Haas ST-10 through to ST-35 lathes and the company’s DS series of CNC turning centres. The unit connects directly to the Haas control and is powered by the turning centre.

The Haas Bar Feeder has been designed for fast set-up and quick change-overs. It features a roll-away design that provides easy access to the rear of the lathe spindle for quick liner adapter and liner changes. When pulled back, the bar feeder locks firmly into position, eliminating any alignment issues.

Adjustment of the bar height is made via a single hand-wheel, and quick-change push-rods snap into place without the need for tools.

Moreover, built-in racks at either end of the bar feeder provide storage for all Haas extruded spindle liners, eliminating the need to walk around the machine as with the previous version.

To reduce cycle times, the new unit features a belt-driven bar-shuttle system that is seven-times faster than the previous version, while optical sensors accurately determine bar position — even on bars with chamfers or ragged edges.