Abstract

An angle spindle attachment for a vertically movable spindle unit is provided for rotating a cutting tool in a generally horizontal orientation. The attachment includes a spindle assembly having a drive train that is mechanically independent from the drive train of the vertically movable spindle unit, and a connector block for detachably connecting the spindle assembly at a transverse angle with respect to the vertically movable spindle unit. The connector block may include an angular adjustment mechanism that allows the spindle assembly to be oriented at an angle above or below the horizontal, as well as a rotational adjustment assembly that allows the spindle assembly to be pivotally adjusted about the axis of rotation of the vertically movable spindle unit. The independent drive train of the spindle assembly may be either electrically, hydraulically, or pneumatically powered, and allows the cutting tool to be held more rigidly, operated with less eccentric movement, and turned at speeds that are not limited by the drive train of the vertically movable spindle unit.