A bench vice (or vise) is a mechanical tool that clamps and holds workpieces securely in place while various operations, such as cutting, drilling, filing, or gluing, are performed. It is typically mounted to a workbench for stability.
Clamping:
Securely holds materials for precision work like sawing, sanding, or filing.
Cutting and Drilling:
Keeps workpieces steady during machining operations.
Gluing and Assembly:
Holds components in place while adhesives cure or parts are fastened.
Shaping and Hammering:
The built-in anvil is used for shaping or flattening materials with a hammer.
Threading:
Keeps pipes or rods stationary during threading operations.
Jaws:
Fixed Jaw: Stationary part of the vice.
Movable Jaw: Moves via a threaded screw mechanism to clamp the workpiece.
Screw Mechanism:
Operated by a handle, it allows precise adjustment of the jaws.
Anvil:
A flat surface on some vices for hammering or shaping materials.
Base:
Can be fixed or swivel, allowing the vice to rotate for better positioning.
Clamps are versatile tools designed to hold workpieces securely in place during various tasks like cutting, drilling, gluing, or assembly. They come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, each suited for specific applications.
C-Clamp
Named for its "C" shape, this clamp consists of a fixed frame and a threaded screw that tightens the jaws.
Uses:
Holding wood or metal pieces together during gluing or welding.
Temporary fastening for sawing, drilling, or sanding.
Securing small parts for precision work.
Trigger Clamp (Quick Clamp)
Operates with a trigger mechanism, allowing for fast one-handed use.
Uses:
Holding pieces together during woodworking or light construction.
Ideal for projects requiring frequent adjustments.
Clamping delicate materials without damage due to adjustable pressure.
Pipe Clamp
Similar to a bar clamp but uses a pipe as the frame, allowing for extended lengths.
Uses:
Securing long or wide workpieces like tabletops or doors.
Clamping irregularly shaped or oversized materials.
Heavy-duty woodworking and carpentry tasks.
Spring Clamp
A compact, handheld clamp with a spring-loaded mechanism that quickly opens and closes.
Uses:
Light-duty clamping for quick tasks, like holding fabric, small wood pieces, or lightweight materials.
Temporary holding during painting or gluing.
Securing tarps or cables.
Arbor Press
An arbor press is a small, hand-operated machine used to apply force in a straight, vertical direction. You pull a lever, which moves the ram straight down. Then, ram presses on the object underneath with a lot of force.
Uses:
Pressing bearings into or out of holes
Bending or straightening metal parts
Stamping letters or numbers onto metal
Assembling small parts (like in clocks or machinery)