Machine vices, also known as engineering vices, are tools and devices used in machine shops in order to hold and secure a work-piece while machining it. The most commonly used machine vices in machine shops are drill presses, milling machines and lathes.
A machine vice is typically made from cast iron, which is durable and strong and allows for firm grip on the work-piece. The most common types of machine vices consist of a block-like body, with jaws on each end, and a screw type mechanism used to tighten and release the jaws. The two jaws, usually made of steel, can also be machined to specific shapes and sizes in order to fit the work-piece being machined.
One of the most common types of machine vices used in machine shops is the angle vice. This type of vice is designed with two angles, one on each side of the vice, which allows for the clamping of angled or curved work-pieces.
Another type of machine vice used in machine shops is the swivel vice. This type of vice consists of a lever which is connected to a swivel joint. By squeezing the lever, the vice can be rotated and adjusted to different angles. This is especially helpful when machining curved or cylindrical surfaces.
There are also many specialty vices used in machine shops, such as toolmaker’s vices, dovetail vices, grinding vices, and surface-grinder vices. Toolmaker’s vices are designed with knife-edge jaws so that they can cut and shape metal. Dovetail vices are designed to secure large and irregular shaped pieces of metal. Grinding vices are used to hold work-pieces while grinding is being done. And surface-grinder vices are designed with smooth flat jaws to hold flat surfaces while it is being machined.
In most cases, a machine vice is clamped to a table or mounted to a machine to secure the work-piece. But in cases where the work-piece is too large to fit in a machine vice, special chains and clamps are used to hold and secure the work-piece.
Machine vices are essential tools in any machine shop, and with the variety of types and sizes available, there is sure to be one that will suit any machining job. For example, machine vices are used to hold and secure a work-piece while it is being machined using a drill press, milling machine or lathe. Additionally, machine vices are also used to secure irregular shaped work-pieces, or to hold and secure flat surfaces for grinding. With the right type of machine vice, any machining job can be completed safely and with precision.
