This specialized workpiece-holding device, often used in conjunction with a milling machine, allows for the precise rotational indexing of a part. This enables the creation of evenly spaced features such as gear teeth, splines, or bolt holes on a cylindrical workpiece. For instance, a circular plate could be mounted on this device to mill slots at precise 30-degree intervals.
The ability to accurately divide a rotation into specific increments is crucial for various machining operations, particularly in toolmaking, prototyping, and small-batch production. Before the widespread adoption of computer numerical control (CNC) machining, this device was essential for creating complex geometries. It remains a valuable tool in workshops where manual machining is still practiced or for specialized tasks where CNC may not be cost-effective. Its enduring relevance stems from its inherent simplicity, precision, and adaptability to diverse workpiece sizes.