In addition to the function of holding the work piece, the fixtures also provide for setting the cutting

tool for the actual machining operation. A fixture is a means through which a part is securely fastened to the machine tool table to accurately locate, support and hold the part during the machining operation. It can be used in a variety of machine tools such as Lathe, milling, grinding, etc. though the milling fixtures are the most widely used in view of the complex requirements for the milling operation. Generally a fixture is supposed to be securely fastened to the machine tool table. Fixtures are widely used in large batch production to ensure the easy setup and achieving the desired accuracy.

Milling fixtures are the most common type of fixture in general use today.

* Milling operations can be broadly classifies as :-

1- Facing

2- Slotting

Milling machines are used extensively for facing seating and mating flat surfaces. Milling is often the first operation performed on the work piece .

Face Milling Fixture

Straddle Milling Fixture

Gang Milling Fixture

In slotting fixture, the work piece should be clamped as close to the portion being machined as possible.

Slotting Fixture

Key-Way Milling Fixture

Standard String Milling Fixture for Round Parts

For simple work pieces in small batches a machine vice can be used conveniently.

Universal Plain Swivel Milling Angle Base Machine and Milling Vise Vise Vise

Vise Clamping Principles For Milling

1. Strength :Milling fixtures should be heavy and robust to withstand heavy forces and severe vibrations developed in milling. Cast iron is a suitable material for milling fixtures. It can withstand vibrations well.

2. Thrust :Heavy If a vice thrust is used, caused it is in better milling to direct the thrust should be transmitted towards the to fixed strong jawsolid instead of the structures. The movable thrust should jaw. not be directed towards a clamp or a movable part.

3. Cutter Setting :Suitable cutter setting pieces should be provided for easy and accurate tool setting. It is customary to keep 0.40 to 0.5 mm gap between the cutter and setting piece. This gap facilitates cutter setting with the Cutter Setting help of a feeler gauge Piece

4. Machine Location Tennons :Milling fixtures are generally fixed with locating tennons (tongues). These are fixed in slots machined on the resting face of the base . Tennons are made close sliding fit in machine T slots.

5. Rigid Clamping :A minimum of twobe clamping slots The fixtures must clamped firmly This is accomplished by a provision are provided. In case of heavy cut to the machine table in order to for U slots in the fixtures. These and thrust, the numbers of clamping prevent sliding due to cutter thrust facilitate direct clamping with T slots are increased to four or six. and vibrations. bolts, instead of external clamps.
Machine Location and Clamping Arrangement for Milling Fixtures

6. Motion Economy :Clamping can be reduced by Generally,time clamping time can be securing more than one work piece overlapped with machining time by with amore single clamp . fixture. In large scale using than one continuous production, pneumatic or hydraulic power clamping should be considered.

7. Metal Filings Disposal :Unlike drilling, milling chips are discontinuous. In case, metal filings get accumulated in closed pockets, big chip removal gates should be provided for cleaning the fixture.