As a segmenter, I need to accurately index on the lathe. Often the number of segments I use will vary between 8 and 60 per ring. I needed a system where I could index accurately and change easily with little or no cost. My solution was to make a number of indexing plates from disc of MDF. Around the circumference I glued a piece of a disused timing belt. The number of indentations was a multiple of how many indexes I needed. I then made a clamp to fit my lathe bed with a toggle clamp attached and a piece of the timing belt glued to the bolt. The fitting to the bed was adjustable to allow for the different diameters of the discs. See the photo for the full set up. I have at present 4 discs for different numbers of segments. This indexing system could be used for anything where specific positions are required and costs virtually nothing to make as well as being quick and easy to construct.
Malcolm.
