By Sheba Kreig


A bar feeder is a specialized piece of workshop engineering that does exactly what the names implies, which is to feed bars to CNC machines. By utilizing bar feeders, workshops can put a CNC into continuous and unobstructed operation without having to worry about providing metal bars that constitute the main workpiece material.

While bar feeders are usually operated by the CNCs control units, a machinist can set feeding rates manually as well. They feature bar pallet holders that are taken one by one and placed on the feeding chamber from where they find their way inside the CNC milling area though the spindle. Nowadays, bar feeders can also monitor the operation and immediately stop if anything goes wrong.

Consideration when selecting bar feeders

As with everything that can be found inside a workshop, bar feeders come in a lot of shapes, sizes, and different technical characteristics. Since this machine is something that is bought on the premise to work well in collaboration with another machine (CNC), buyers should be particularly cautious on what model they should choose. Here are some of the most important points for consideration:

Size of Magazine

The magazine size indicates how many bars of a specified diameter can be held in the bar feeder's storage chamber. This, combined with the feeding rate essentially gives out the hours of operation of a bar feeder before it required bar refilling. Although this may vary depending on a workshop's needs, a minimum operation of at least eight hours is generally suggested.

Part and Spindle Size

Each part that is produced on the CNC requires a specific amount of bar length to be realized. Machinists should calculate the total bar size, subtract the length of the part that is held on the CNC spindle and divide with part length to determine the number of the workpieces can be produced with each bar. This can indicate if a bar feeder choice is good or not, as sometimes a slightly longer bar could be enough for one whole extra product.

Safety of Operation

As bar feeders are required to work well for long periods of time without the presence of personnel, it is very important to have safety features that monitor the operation and check for errors in the process. Some safety net mechanisms that are used by modern bar feeders include sensors, load meters, infrared beams and streaming webcams that send video technicians remotely.

Floor Space Needs

Bar feeders are installed right next to the CNC, so considering if a workshop has enough floor space for such a machine is imperative. Also, remember that it's not only about fitting a machine in a corner, but also providing for enough space for regular maintenance and access in the compartments. Finally, if a crane will be used for the feeding of the magazine, enough maneuvering space should be considered.




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