Loader/unloader for blind broaching

摘要

Apparatus for progressive blind broaching has an indexing table which carries a load station, a unload station and several tool stations. Broaches are mounted on the table at the tool stations. Rams on opposite sides of the table move workpieces up and down to be broached between intermittent indexing of the table. The load station has a workpiece holder to deliver unbroached workpieces to the rams. The unload station has a workpiece holder to receive broached workpieces from the rams. A transfer mechanism moves workpieces from a exchange depot at the rear of the table to the load station and moves workpieces from the unload station to the exchange depot. This transfer mechanism moves across the top of the table and does not occupy or obstruct any space along the sides or front of the table.