Fixture plate

Definition

A fixture plate is a type of tooling component used in subtractive manufacturing that provides a stable and precise surface for securing workpieces during machining operations. This essential piece of equipment helps to ensure that parts are held securely in place, allowing for accurate machining, reducing errors, and improving overall production efficiency. Fixture plates can be customized with various features such as locating pins, T-slots, or threaded holes to accommodate different workpieces and setups.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Fixture plates are often made from materials like aluminum or steel, providing durability and rigidity necessary for high-precision machining.
2. Using a fixture plate can significantly reduce setup time when switching between different workpieces in a machining operation.
3. They can be designed with modular features, allowing for flexibility in accommodating various workpieces and configurations.
4. Fixture plates help to minimize movement of the workpiece during machining, leading to improved part accuracy and repeatability.
5. Many modern fixture plates incorporate advanced technologies such as quick-release clamps and automated positioning systems to enhance workflow efficiency.

Review Questions

• How does the use of a fixture plate impact the accuracy and efficiency of subtractive manufacturing processes?
  • A fixture plate directly influences both accuracy and efficiency in subtractive manufacturing by providing a stable platform for securing workpieces. This stability prevents movement during machining, which can lead to errors in dimensions and finish quality. Additionally, by reducing setup time and allowing for quick changes between different jobs, fixture plates streamline production processes, ultimately leading to higher throughput without compromising precision.
• Discuss the advantages of integrating features like T-slots and locating pins into fixture plates for machining operations.
  • Integrating features such as T-slots and locating pins into fixture plates greatly enhances their versatility and usability in machining operations. T-slots allow operators to easily attach various clamps and fixtures, making it simpler to adapt to different workpieces. Locating pins ensure precise alignment, enabling repeatability across multiple setups. Together, these features reduce the need for custom tooling for each job, thus saving time and costs while maintaining high accuracy.
• Evaluate the role of material selection in the design of fixture plates, considering factors like weight, rigidity, and thermal expansion.
  • Material selection is crucial in the design of fixture plates because it affects their performance under machining conditions. For instance, materials like aluminum offer lightweight properties that can reduce handling time but may lack the rigidity needed for heavy-duty machining. Steel provides excellent rigidity but can be heavier and more cumbersome. Additionally, thermal expansion must be considered; materials with low coefficients of thermal expansion maintain dimensional stability better under varying temperatures during operations. Balancing these factors is key to designing effective fixture plates that meet specific manufacturing needs.

Related terms

Workholding: The process of securely holding a workpiece in place during machining to ensure precision and accuracy.

Locating Pins: Precision pins used to align and position workpieces accurately on a fixture plate for consistent machining results.

T-slots: Grooves machined into the surface of a fixture plate that allow for the easy attachment of clamps, fixtures, or other workholding devices.