Maximizing Efficiency with Custom Tombstones

When people hear the word tombstone, manufacturing probably isn't the first thing that comes to mind.

In machining, however, a tombstone is one of the easiest ways to get more out of a horizontal machining center (HMC). Instead of holding parts on just one surface, a tombstone offers multiple working faces, allowing the machine to keep moving from one setup to the next with little downtime. Whether the goal is longer unattended runs, increased throughput, or simply making better use of the equipment already on the shop floor, this solution plays a huge role in maximizing efficiency.

Recently, we built two custom tombstones for a customer: one with four faces and one with three. Both are made from cast iron and designed to accept custom fixtures, giving the customer the flexibility to machine the parts they need while making the most of their available space.

These tombstones were designed for a pallet pool system, which allows operators to load parts ahead of time and let the machine continue working through multiple pallets automatically, even when operators step away. The result is fewer interruptions and more opportunities to keep production moving.

At its core, this is what workholding is all about. You don't always have to make improvements to the machine itself, sometimes, you have to find better ways to utilize what's already there. Whether it's a Stallion Trunnion Table or a custom tombstone solution, thoughtfully designed workholding is what allows manufacturers to stop handling and start machining.

If you're interested in custom solutions and getting the most out of your HMC, reach out to our team! We'd love to learn more about your process and help you find the right fit for your shop.