Cams and followers
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Flip to reveal answersHow is the lift of a cam found?
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All 4 Flashcards — Cams and followers
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Question
How is the lift of a cam found?
Answer
Largest radius minus smallest radius. That is how far the follower rises, and it sets the stroke of whatever the follower drives.
Question
What is a dwell and why does it matter?
Answer
A stretch of constant radius where the follower holds still while the shaft turns. It is how a valve stays open for part of a cycle and how a feed waits for a needle to clear.
Question
How is a cam designed?
Answer
Backwards: draw the displacement graph of follower height against shaft angle, then wrap it round the shaft so each height becomes a radius at that angle.
Question
Why does the follower type matter?
Answer
A knife edge traces fine detail and wears fast; a roller wears well and is usual; a flat follower cannot enter a concave curve, so the profile must suit it.
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Topic 7.3 hub
Mechanical systems applied
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