{"id":28519,"date":"2022-03-14T06:00:00","date_gmt":"2022-03-14T13:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/blog\/?p=28519"},"modified":"2022-03-02T11:56:11","modified_gmt":"2022-03-02T19:56:11","slug":"understanding-the-top-10-cnc-fixturing-types","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/blog\/understanding-the-top-10-cnc-fixturing-types\/","title":{"rendered":"Understanding the Top 10 CNC Fixturing Types"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Discover the ten most common types of fixturing and what type of fixturing is best for your milling project in this CNC fixturing overview.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"cnc-fixturing\"
Image courtesy of Saunders Machine Works<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Workholding and fixturing can be challenging aspects of CNC milling. Designers have learned and shared several different ways to clamp parts into place throughout the decades. The ten most common fixtures range from CNC vises to self-fixturing and vacuum workholding. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

John Saunders of NYC CNC<\/a> created a video series that breaks down the top 10 CNC fixturing types, from soft jaws to custom fixtures. We’ve included all of his accompanying videos in this article to give you a closer look at each fixturing type<\/p>\n\n\n

What is CNC Milling?<\/h2>\n\n\n

Before we get started, what is computer numerical control (CNC) milling? CNC milling is a machining process that utilizes computerized controls and rotating multipoint cutting tools to consecutively remove material from the workpiece to create a specific or custom part, product, or fixture. Hence, this process is faster and more precise than traditional machining processes. It’s also important to note CNC milling is not limited to metalwork. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Engineers can also manipulate plastic, glass, and wood for various applications. The milling process begins with a 2D or 3D product design in computer-aided design (CAD) software. Then, the engineer converts and prepares the file in computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software in preparation for milling. They then load the product into the machine, and physical production begins.<\/p>\n\n\n

Types of Fixturing<\/h2>\n\n\n

So, let\u2019s take a look at the best ways to fixture material within the CNC machines, including vises, soft jaws, vacuum work holding, and more. Enjoy!<\/p>\n\n\n

1. Vise Work<\/h4>\n\n
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