Cams and Followers Flashcards
(13 cards)
What is the function of a cam and follower?
To convert rotary motion into reciprocating or oscillating motion.
Describe an eccentric cam.
A circular cam with an off-centre pivot point, producing a smooth, continuous rise and fall motion.
Where might you find an eccentric cam in use?
In fuel pumps or mechanical timers.
Describe a pear cam.
A cam shaped like a pear that remains stationary for half a turn before a sudden rise and fall.
Give an application for a pear cam.
Car engine valves.
Describe a heart cam.
A cam shaped like a heart that produces a uniform rise and fall motion.
What’s an application for a heart cam?
In textile machinery or automatic control systems.
Describe a knife follower.
A follower with a pointed tip that maintains very precise contact with the cam profile.
What is the advantage of a knife follower?
It allows very accurate following of a cam’s shape but can wear quickly.
Describe a roller follower.
A follower with a rotating wheel that reduces friction between the follower and cam.
Where would you use a roller follower?
In high-speed machinery to reduce wear and friction.
Describe a flat follower.
A follower with a flat surface in contact with the cam, simple but produces more friction.
Why is it important to choose the correct type of cam and follower?
To achieve the desired motion pattern, reduce wear, and improve system efficiency.
