Page 1MF

(Rev. 8-94)

INTRODUCTION
What exactly is modular fixturing? In many ways modular fixturing is
just like permanent fixturing, except for a few key differences. First,
modular fixtures can be assembled entirely from reusable off-the-shelf
components, without machining. Next, many modular components are
adjustable and universal. Finally, specially designed tooling plates and
blocks, with a standard grid pattern, are the foundation of a good mod-
ular system.
GRID HOLES VS. EARLIER T-SLOT SYSTEMS:
The two primary forms of modular systems available today are those
with grid-pattern holes and earlier types with T slots to mount compo-
nents. Grid holes offer many advantages over T slots. Modular sys-
tems with grid holes have greater positional accuracy and strength
than those with T slots. T-slot systems permit movement along the
slot, so nothing but friction holds components in place. Wherever T
slots cross each other, a weak point exists.

MULTIPURPOSE GRID HOLES OFFER

MAXIMUM FLEXIBILITY:
Grid-pattern modular-fixturing systems come in two styles: those with
alternating dowel holes and tapped holes and those with multipurpose
holes. The alternating-hole style does not offer as many advantages
as the Carr Lane multipurpose-hole style. Multipurpose holes have
both an alignment bushing and threaded insert in the same hole. This
arrangement permits each hole to serve as an alignment hole, mount-
ing hole, or both. Multipurpose holes are laid out in a standard 1" or 2"
grid pattern (depending on the size) to allow the maximum number of
mounting locations.

Locating
Screw

Precision
Bushing

A VALUABLE TOOL FOR EVERY

MACHINE SHOP: Threaded Insert
Most metal-machining manufacturers have good applications for tem-
porary fixturing every day! The leadtime and expense required to build POWER WORKHOLDING CAPABILITY:
a permanent fixture are often difficult to justify. This is especially true The ability to use hydraulic power workholding is another considera-
when production runs are small and do not repeat on a regular basis. tion in the selection of a modular-workholding system. A modular sys-
General-purpose workholders — such as vises, chucks, and table tem should treat power workholding as an integral part of the complete
mounted clamps — can be ready for production on short notice, but fixturing plan. Instead of requiring special power components, a good
they are primarily suited for short runs of basic parts. Fortunately, modular system uses standard, off-the-shelf power workholding com-
there is now another alternative: modular fixturing. When a company ponents. Adapting standard power components to modular workhold-
adds modular fixturing to its options, even job-shop-type production ers both reduces cost and expands design options. SWIFTSURE
can benefit from quality fixturing. power clamps and work supports are the finest available, and work
hand-in-hand with the Carr Lane modular system. Also, our HILMA
GOOD APPLICATIONS FOR MODULAR precision hydraulic vises work perfectly with modular tooling plates
and blocks.
FIXTURING:
Modular fixturing is an ideal answer to many workholding problems.
One-time jobs, found especially in job shops, are ideal for modular fix-
CHOICE OF THREE SYSTEM SIZES:
A good modular fixturing system needs to accommodate a wide range
turing; with modular fixturing, a workholder can be economically built
of workpiece sizes. Only Carr Lane offers a full line of modular compo-
even for a one-part run. Jobs that do not repeat on a regular basis are
nents in three system sizes. As a comparison to choose the proper
well suited to modular fixturing; modular fixturing permits rapid setup
system size, the table below shows typical clamping force exerted by
of short-notice production runs. Modular fixturing is also ideal for pro-
clamp straps in each size (2-to-1 lever ratio).
totype parts; since prototypes are often changed or redesigned, the
cost of building a permanent fixture for each new variation would be
prohibitive. Replacement parts are another perfect application; modu-
lar fixturing allows a company to respond to orders as they are
received, instead of shipping parts from an inventory. Trial fixturing is
also an excellent application; modular workholders allow a designer to
fine tune tooling ideas before a final production workholder is built.
Finally, modular fixturing is valuable while permanent fixtures are built
or repaired.
Mini Standard Heavy
THE WIDEST SELECTION OF TOOLING 5/16-18 1/2-13 5/18-11
PLATES & BLOCKS:
Tooling plates and blocks are the main structural elements of any RECOMMENDED CLAMPING
modular-fixturing system. The type, style, and number of plates and STUD TORQUE FORCE
blocks available determine the variety of fixtures that can be built, and SIZE SIZE (FT-LBS) (LBS)
also the number of machine tools that can be used. The Carr Lane MINI 5/16-18 9 900
modular system has the largest selection of tooling plates and blocks STANDARD 1/2-13 38 2300
available anywhere. HEAVY 5/8-11 77 3700

MANUFACTURING CO.
4200 Carr Lane Ct., P.O. Box 191970
St. Louis, Missouri 63119-7970 USA
Phone: 314-647-6200, FAX: 314-647-5736
Web Site: www.carrlane.com