WORK HOLDING DEVICES
WORK
HOLDING DEVICES
Work holding devices are tools used
to secure, support, and locate a workpiece during manufacturing
operations like machining, welding, grinding, or assembly. They ensure safety,
accuracy, and efficiency by preventing the workpiece from moving.
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1. Purpose of Work Holding Devices:
- Hold the workpiece firmly and accurately
- Prevent vibration and shifting during operations
- Ensure repeatability and consistency
- Improve operator safety
- Speed up production
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Types of Work Holding Devices
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A. General-Purpose Devices:
|
Device |
Description |
Applications |
|
1. Vise (Vice) |
Mechanical device with two jaws to
hold workpieces |
Drilling, milling, benchwork |
|
2. Clamp |
Applies pressure to hold objects
tightly |
Welding, carpentry, temporary
setups |
|
3. Chuck |
Holds rotating workpieces,
especially in lathes |
Turning, drilling, CNC machining |
|
4. Collet |
A subtype of chuck with high
precision for small, round parts |
CNC lathes, routers |
|
5. Faceplate |
A flat plate used to mount
irregular workpieces on a lathe |
Turning large or odd shapes |
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B. Machine-Specific Devices:
|
Device |
Description |
Machine |
|
6. Angle Plate |
L-shaped device to hold the
workpiece perpendicular |
Milling, drilling |
|
7. V-Block |
Block with V-groove to hold
cylindrical parts |
Inspection, marking |
|
8. Fixtures |
Custom device designed for
specific jobs |
Milling, drilling |
|
9. Jigs |
Guides the tool and holds the
workpiece |
Drilling, tapping |
|
10. Mandrel |
Shaft used to hold hollow
cylindrical workpieces |
Lathe operations |
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Difference Between Jig and Fixture
|
Feature |
Jig |
Fixture |
|
Function |
Holds and guides the tool |
Only holds the workpiece |
|
Usage |
Mostly in drilling, reaming |
Used in milling, turning |
|
Cost |
More complex and costly |
Less complex |
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Selection Criteria for Work Holding Devices
- Size and shape of the workpiece
- Type of operation (drilling, milling, welding, etc.)
- Material of the workpiece
- Precision required
- Production volume
Conclusion:
Work holding devices are essential
in any workshop or manufacturing process. Choosing the right device increases accuracy,
productivity, and safety.
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