Fixtureworks Five-Axis Clamping Vises Offer Stable Workholding

Fixtureworks offers five-axis clamping vises identified as CP170. Supporting the vise is a complete clamping system designed for five-axis machining, including centering clamps, jaws, flex zero bases and clamping pins.

The compact self-centering vises, which feature center-moving jaws to provide stability, come in overall length of 130 and 170 mm and are engineered for five-axis machining. According to the company, the rigid design enables strong clamping force up to 4,500 lb (20 kN). The system is supplied with four locating screws for mounting. The vise (clamping) body is made from 4140 steel, which is induction hardened, precision ground and features a black oxide finish.

Jaws, both dovetail and serrated, are available in 79-mm lengths and available in sets for the CP170 self-centering vises to hold the workpiece at two surfaces and provide positive clamping force. Center-moving jaws provide stable workpiece settings for five-axis machining. Serrated jaws deliver enhanced grip for more aggressive operation, as well as stable workpiece centering settings. Additionally, serrated contact surfaces can penetrate into the workpiece for powerful clamping. Both types of jaws provide for small clamping area.

Flex Zero Bases locate and clamp workpieces, fixture plates and vises. Bases, available in 240 mm and 150 mm square configurations with four-point clamping in a single operation, can shorten fixture change operations. Locating repeatability is 0.005 mm. The body is made from 1050 nitrocarburized steel, HV 400 and the threaded spindle is made from 4140 steel with a black oxide finish.

Used with CP170-N vises, four pins are available as a set for mounting. Also available is a protective cover for unused holes in the base’s grid.