Jigs and fixtures are devices used in
manufacturing processes to assist in holding, guiding, and positioning work
pieces or tools.They are
critical in ensuring precision, repeatability, and efficiency in production.
Let’s
discuss them thoroughly
Jigs: Jigs are special purpose tools or
templates that guide, control, or restrain the movement of a tool or work piece.
Types of
Jigs:
1. Drilling Jig : Used to guide drills
for creating holes at specific locations and depths.
2. Boring Jig : Similar to drilling jigs
but used for larger diameters.
3. Welding Jig : Holds parts in position
for welding.
4. Assembly Jig : Aids in assembling
parts together in a correct alignment.
5. Template Jig : Provides a template
against which operations can be performed, such as marking or cutting.
Fixtures: Fixtures
are devices used to securely hold the work piece during machining or inspection.
Types of
Fixtures:
1. Milling Fixture: Holds and locates
the work piece during milling operations.
2. Turning Fixture: Used for holding the
work piece in a lathe during turning operations.
3. Grinding Fixture: Holds and supports
the work piece during grinding operations.
4. Inspecting Fixture: Used to hold the work
piece during inspection to check dimensions or other qualities.
5. Welding Fixture: Holds parts in
position for welding operations.
Key Difference between Jigs and Fixture:
|
|
Jigs |
Fixture |
|
Purpose
|
Jigs primarily guide tools or work
pieces during operations.
|
Fixtures hold work pieces securely for
machining or inspection.
|
|
Design
|
Jigs are designed to control the
tool's movement or the work piece’s location.
|
Fixtures are designed to securely
clamp the work piece in a specific orientation.
|
|
Application
|
Jigs are more commonly used in
operations like drilling, tapping, or assembly.
|
Fixtures are essential in machining
processes such as milling, turning, or grinding.
|
In short, Jigs and
fixtures are essential tools in manufacturing, each serving distinct
purposes in enhancing accuracy, productivity, and repeatability of production
processes.