Numerous versions of this type of machine have been designed and produced over the past 50 years. They are designed for specific applications and vary from manual operation to fully automatic. The machine shown here is an example of an automatic single end needle bearing machine.

The auto sequencing is:

1. Loader pushes the part into the nest

2. Next is moved in front of insert unit

3. Insert unit loads needles into the gear housing

4. Nest with the finished part returns to load/unload position

5. Loader pushes the new pinion in and finished part out

This entire process only takes on 3 seconds to complete. At this rate, operating at 100% efficiency, the machine can produce 1200 parts per hour.

The automatic needle bearing machine (middle photo) assembles two rows of needles with a washer in between each set at a rate of 1200 parts per hour. As part of the process, needles can be coated with grease, skew-locked, or a plug can be inserted.

This automatic needle cup-loading machine (bottom photo) was designed to assemble the bearing cup, bearing cup needle, bottom spacer, optional O-ring and rubber seals for universal joints.

This machine performs the following operations:

1. Automatically assemble and retain spacer into bottom of bearing cup with grease

2. Automatically assembly and retain needle bearings into bearing cup with grease

3. Automatically assemble rubber seal onto bearing cup after needle bearing insertion

4. Automatically install grease onto inner ID groove of rubber seal.

5. Optional insertion of rubber O-ring after needle insertion.

At 100% efficiency, 1200 pieces per hour can be produced. This translates into an impressive 3-second cycle time.