Workholding Devices

Chapter 29

Workholding Devices

Dedicated workholding devices

Jigs
Fixtures

Modular
Universal

Vises
Chucks

Dedicated Workholding
Devices

Jig: A specially designed w/h device that

determines location dimensions that is
produced by machining or fastening
operations.
Fixture: A specially designed w/h device
that holds the work during machining or
assembly operations and establishes
size dimensions.
Chucks and vises are often used for
constructing fixtures.

Design Criteria
Positive
location

The workpiece is
located by 3-2-1
principal.

Design Criteria

Repeatability

Adequate clamping forces

Fool proofing
Gravity, cutting, inertial, centrifugal

Reliability
Ruggedness

Loading and unloading operations more

abuse than machining
Replacement of parts that wear

Design Criteria
Constructability

Use standard elements

Low Profile
Workpiece Accommodation
Ergonomics, Safety

Pinch points
30-40 lbs force to operate clamp
Tool path and operators paths should not
cross

Design Criteria

Part distortion

Flexibility

Accommodate a
family of parts

Design Considerations

Clamping

Spread clamping forces over large area

Direct clamping toward work support
and locating points
Cutting forces toward fixed area of w/h
device
Perform as many machining operations
as possible with each setup.

Clamps

Clamping

Design Considerations

Chip Disposal

Decrease tool life

Interfere with part loading

Loading/Unloading Time

Minimize

Common Types of Jigs

Common Types of Jigs

Modular

Other Workholding
Devices

Vises
Chucks
Clamps
Assembly jigs
Magnetic chucks (grinding)
Electrostatic devices (any metal)
Vacuum (variable force)