fixture
A fixture is a purposely constructed device that securely holds, supports, or positions metal materials as part of any manufacturing process, including but not limited to machining, welding, or assembly operations. Fixtures are different from general-purpose clamps in that they are each made to meet a specific need, and to aid in consistent manufacture of parts with precision and repeatability.
Key Features:
- Accurate positioning: Designed to hold parts with applies orientation which is critical for precision machining & welding.
- Improved Productivity: Since they hold the workpiece steady, there is usually much less measurement time required, reducing measurement discrepancies and speeding up rate of manufacture.
- Greater Customization: A fixture can be constructed to meet specific parts or operations. For example, a fixture can be constructed to hold the entire range of assemblies, or multiple assemblies at once.
Fixtures are used throughout the automotive, aerospace and metal fabrication sectors where accurate and consistent placement of components is critical. For example in the CNC machining process, a fixture holds a metal piece under static conditions during cutting. This can reduce the amount of vibration and reduce tool wear and the deformation of the work piece. During welding, fixtures are used to accurately hold parts together, while preventing deformation by holding to tolerances..
