Custom Fixturing FAQs

What is a custom fixturing system in manufacturing?

A custom fixturing system is a specialized set of tools, fixtures, and jigs designed to hold a workpiece in place during a manufacturing operation.

Why is custom fixturing important in manufacturing?

Custom fixturing is important in manufacturing because it allows for accurate and repeatable production of parts. It can also improve productivity, reduce scrap, and increase overall efficiency.

What are the benefits of using custom fixturing systems?

Custom fixturing systems offer several benefits, including improved accuracy and repeatability, increased productivity, reduced scrap and waste, and faster cycle times.

What are the different fixtures?

The different fixtures include drill jigs, milling fixtures, lathe fixtures, and grinding fixtures.

What is an example of a fixture in manufacturing?

An example of a fixture in manufacturing is a drill jig used to hold a workpiece in place while drilling a hole.

How are fixtures created?

A person using CAD software creates the fixture design, and then machinists fabricate them using many kinds of materials, such as aluminum, steel, or plastics.

Do companies using high-volume production use custom fixtures?

Yes, they can use custom fixturing systems in high-volume production because they offer consistent and precise results.

Can you modify or adapt a custom fixturing system for different parts?

Yes, flexibility is one of the greatest advantages of a custom system.

What applications use modular fixtures?

Milling, drilling, grinding, and welding applications use modular fixtures.

How are fixtures designed?

Engineers or designers, using CAD software, design the fixtures, then send the prints to a CNC machine for fabrication.

How long does designing and fabricating a custom fixturing system take?

The time to design and manufacture a custom fixturing system varies depending on the complexity of the system and the availability of materials. However, the process typically takes several weeks or months.

What is the cost of a custom fixturing system?

The cost of a custom fixturing system varies depending on the system's complexity, the materials used, and the quantity produced. It ranges from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars.

What are the three most common modular component fixturing systems?

The three most common modular component fixturing systems are the T-slot, grid plate, and modular fixture systems.

What is the 321 principle?

The 321 principle is a rule of thumb used in fixture design that states a workpiece should be by at least three points, with two points in the same plane and the third point in a different plane.

What’s the difference between tooling and fixtures?

Tooling refers to the cutting tools used to shape and form materials, while fixtures hold the workpiece in place during manufacturing.

Jigs

What is a jig in manufacturing?

A jig is a specialized tool used to guide and control the movement of a cutting tool during a manufacturing operation.

What are the different jigs?

The different jigs include drill jigs, boring jigs, indexing jigs, and welding jigs.

What are the three most common forms of tool bodies in jigs and fixtures?

The three most common forms of tool bodies in jigs and fixtures are plate, box, and angle plate fixtures.