High degrees of accuracy and precision are critical for CNC machining jobs for desirable product quality and formation. These workpieces feature complex geometry, sharp internal corners, and smaller diameters which can be challenging to cut with standard tools. As a result, various tools can hold these objects in place for better grasp and viability of the part. These tools are called workholding, and having many tools can be confusing. Here are the fundamentals of workholding and how these tools work.
What is Workholding?
Workholding is a broad term referring to devices for holding workpieces in a secure position for proper orientation with the tooling. It exerts enough force to resist the machining forces to prevent part deformation. CNC workholding is used in the machining process to create critical automotive, aerospace, and medical components to combat the geometric limitations of CNC machining.
In addition, Workholding keeps these workpieces fixed during machining to keep them stable and immobile.
Lathe Workholding Devices
Lathe workholding devices work by firmly holding pieces in position while rotating the workpiece on the spindle. The choice of device to use varies based on the workpiece's shape, diameter, length, and weight. These turning devices include;
- Chucks
Chucks are the predominant lathe workholding devices because of their accuracy, efficiency, and compatibility with various work pieces.
Types of Chucks
- Three Jaw Chuck
This chuck is a universal, self-centric chuck with three jaws working instantaneously. In addition, it has separate internal jaws for holding round and hexagonal workpieces.
- Four Jaw Chuck
The four-jaw chuck is also called the independent jaw chuck with four jaws, each separable using the chuck key. These jaws are angled to mount workpieces or different-sized projects effectively. The four jaw chuck holds irregular and regular shaped jobs, heavy and wide diameter workpieces.
- Magnetic Chuck
The magnetic chuck uses magnetic power to hold pieces during machining. It is advantageous for mass-producing thin-sectioned jobs and components. They can either be permanent magnets or electromagnets.
- Collet Chuck
These are smaller chucks for holding pieces that are smaller than 25 mm. They are great for achieving perfection since they save time and increase production speed.
- Combination Chuck
This chuck is typically a four-jaw chuck with independently adjustable jaws like the three- and four-jaw chuck. This chuck is more applicable in jobs with duplicate workpieces which it tightens with the self-centering socket in its body.
- Faceplates
This faceplate turns objects and workpieces on large, flat, irregularly shaped jobs and castings.
- Driving plates and catch plates
The driving plate is a circular plate that turns jobs between the centers. It is usable with a straight tail or bent tail carrier for a positive drive on the workpiece. The catch plate has a 'U' slot with an elliptical slot for attaching the lathe carrier.
- Carriers
The carrier holds workpieces when fixed between the centers. Then, the piece is inserted in the carrier's hole and fixed tightly.
- Centers
Centers support workpieces between the tailstock and headstock during operation. They are high-carbon steel components that are hardened, tempered, and ground.
- Rests
The rest is a workholding device that holds and supports long cylinders and thin jobs. In addition, it maintains the stable position of the workpiece while turning.
The workholding devices mentioned above are necessary lathe machines that are great for CNC machining. Understanding the functions of these tools in detail can help you select the best work tools.
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