Have you ever confused fixtures with jigs? When I first started in the OEM metal stamping industry, I had the same issue. I initially believed they were identical, but after many years of experience, I noticed some differences. If you have similar questions, I hope this article can provide some clarity.
Purpose
Let’s start with the fundamental purpose of jigs and fixtures. Jigs are designed to hold, support, and locate the workpiece and guide the cutting tool for a specific operation. On the contrary, fixtures are tasked with firmly holding the workpiece in place without guiding the cutting tool.
Accuracy and Repeatability
When it comes to ensuring repeatability, accuracy, and interchangeability in manufacturing products, jigs are your go-to tool. They ensure each manufactured part is consistent with the next. Fixtures, on the other hand, provide a secure mounting point for the workpiece, which enhances accuracy, precision, reliability, and interchangeability.
Construction
Jigs are often constructed using standard parts like bushings and screws. In contrast, fixtures are typically forged from cast iron or steel and assembled through welding or bolting.
Application
The application of jigs is generally found in unidimensional machining operations such as drilling, reaming, and tapping. Fixtures are more versatile, used in multi-dimensional machining like milling, planning, and turning, and for assembly and inspection tasks as well.
Fixation to the Table
While jigs are often portable and not fixed to the table, fixtures are the exact opposite. They are rigidly affixed to the machine table for stability during machining operations.
Weight
Jigs are lighter in construction for easier handling and quicker set-up, whereas fixtures are heavier and bolted to the machine table to maintain stability during machining.
Contact with Cutting Tool
Lastly, jigs interact with the cutting tool to accurately set the angle and position. Fixtures, however, do not come into contact with the cutting tool.
While jigs and fixtures might seem similar at first glance, they serve unique and essential roles in the OEM metal stamping industry. Understanding these differences is crucial to effectively utilizing each tool in the manufacturing process.
