Design of Spindle Design of machine tool elements is critical in tool engineering. They must withstand against applied external load. The machine tool elements such as guideways, slideways and spindle unit are discussed in detail in the next section. Additionally, requirements, functions and types of guideways and spindle are also explained. Figure 13.6 shows schematic diagram of spindle. A spindle represents a shaft with (a) length ‘a’ which is acted upon by driving force F2, and (b) cantilever of length ‘m’ acted upon by external force F1. The spindle is basically designed for bending stiffness which requires that maximum deflection of spindle nose should ...