Spindle disc for high speed can decorators

Abstract

A mandrel/spindle disc for a continuous motion can decorator includes a plurality of relatively lightweight mandrel assemblies mounted on a rotating carrier with equal angular spacings between adjacent assemblies. The assemblies reciprocate radially with respect to the carrier axis as a center. Each assembly includes a base and two guide rods that extend radially inward from the base and are received by sleeve bushings that are disposed in radial holes extending inward from the carrier periphery. A plurality of relatively small grease pools are formed by small transverse holes, each of which extend forward from the rear of the carrier disc to engage the inner ends of four bushing holes. Vacuum and air pressure are fed to each mandrel assembly through a flexible hose having a large loop therein. The base of the assembly is made compact so that when decorations are being applied to a particular can the mandrel supporting that particular can moves relatively close to the radially outward end of the bushings thereby reducing bending moments acting between the assembly guide shafts and their bushings. These bushings extend radially outward of the carrier periphery, being received by undercuts in washer-like retainers that are piloted on the bushings to help position sealing rings that are mounted under the inside of the retainers.