Proper Fixturing

A fixture is a special workholding and supporting device designed and built for a particular part or shape that can be made by using standardized components, such as drill bushings, locating buttons, and clamping devices. This article provides a discussion on optimum fixture design and describes the clamping methods, namely, manual clamping, pneumatic clamping, and hydraulic clamping, and their specific principles. It presents an overview on modular fixturing for limited production. The article concludes with information on cost factors in fixturing.