Westec 2000: Workholding System Eliminates Vise Jaws, Provides Positive Location

The Techni-Grip workholding system uses proven "pin in hole" locating to provide consistent, positive location accuracy. The twist is, the holes are in the workpiece itself, while the pins are part of the Techni-Grip vise.

To set up the system, users first mill a 1/8 in. dovetail on the part edges that lie along the clamping axis of the part. The next step is drilling of ½-in. diam, 1/8 in. deep holes along the workpiece centerline. The holes must be spaced 1.375 in. on center and must be parallel and in-line with the dovetail cuts.

The holes locate the part on corresponding pins on the Techni-Grip system, while the dovetails positively lock in matching clamps with the turn of an allen wrench. The system thus provides positive location and secure workholding while eliminating jaw milling and changing, parallels and spreaders, work stops or programmable stops. It also increases productivity by allowing access to all sides of the part in a single setup.

The system lets users chuck different size parts by choosing which pins to use for part location. The vises themselves are available in various sizes and in configurations for horizontal or vertical machines. Also available is a complete fourth-axis assembly.

Techni-Grip, P.O. Box 4327, Federal Way, WA 98063. Phone (877) 841-4747; fax (253) 922-5278.