Multi-Angle vs. Fixed Clamps: Which Is Better for You?

Multi-angle clamps and fixed clamps each have their advantages in the workplace.By comparing and analyzing the three factors of application, cost effectiveness, and operational flexibility, this article will help you to choose the most suitable type of fixture, in accordance with your needs for processing, budget, and working environment. This will help you to boost your efficiency while avoiding waste of resources.

Choosing the right fixture can double efficiency.

Each time you see the workshop piled high with all kinds of clamps, don't you think to yourself, "I just don't have the right one for this"? In fact, choosing clamps is just like choosing tools. The key is to see if they are "suitable.Today, let's take a look at the real-life experience of using a multi-angle clamp and a fixed clamp, so you can avoid the pitfall of buying the wrong one and letting it collect dust in your toolbox.

Ask yourself three questions.

Will your processing targets change?

If you need to handle parts of different shapes and sizes, the multi-angle clamping device is like a Transformer robot. With 360 ° rotating joints and extendable clamps, it can securely hold round pipes and irregularly shaped sheets.But if you are going to be mass-producing standard components, a fixed fixture is more practical, since a "special-purpose" structure is more stable.

Is there enough operating space?

Friends working in cramped workshops, take note: Although fixed jigs take up little space, when work needs to be done at an angle, it may be necessary to repeatedly assemble and disassemble them.At this point, the adjustable fixture with the universal joint can simply "turn its body" in place, saving 50 % of the time that would otherwise be required for adjustment.

How tight is the budget?

The truth is, adjustable fixtures are 30-50 % more expensive than fixed ones.But in the long run, if you need to keep changing the equipment to suit new projects, it is cheaper to buy a multifunctional model.But if you are going to be doing the same task for a long time, it's still better to choose a basic model. "Idle functionality is a waste.

A personal report.

Last week I took two clamps and tested them.

- 20 irregular parts processed, 47 minutes saved in fixture adjustment time.

- When drilling 500 standard holes in a batch, the vibration of the clamping fixture is less than 0.3 mm.

- When the material being processed is suddenly changed, the speed of adjusting the fixture doubles.

This way you don't step on any landmines.

It is suggested that novices first rent a board for a trial run.

Record the frequency of change in the types of products processed in one week.

2) Measure the range of variation in the dimensions of a frequently used workpiece.

3. Calculate the rate of unused fixtures.

With these three sets of data in hand, you can be sure to pick a "good worker" who won't give you any trouble.

And one final reminder: don't be taken in by advertisements for "universal" clamps.A screwdriver can't be used as a hammer, and clamps need to be used in the right place to be effective.Next time you are having difficulty choosing, remember to take a look at this comparison guide.