12 bench vise

Types of 12 bench vises

A 12 bench vise, also known as a 12 inch bench vise, is a large support clamp with a fixed jaw and movable jaw. Its size is measured based on the distance between the jaws. Bench vises are generally classified into two main categories: machine and blacksmith bench vises. Here is a further breakdown of the different types of large bench vises:

• Machine vises

  They are specifically designed to work with machines. They come with T-slots that help secure them on surfaces and tooling systems. Large machine vises are better for holding workpieces horizontally. They also have a very accurate alignment to assist with machining operations. Power vises are another type of machine vises. They are electrically operated and can hold larger workpieces.

• Blacksmith vises

  They are designed to offer the blacksmith support while hammering heated metal into shape. They typically come with square-shaped jaws that taper outwards. The unique shape is ideal for holding odd-shaped workpieces like round stocks. They also come with an anvil feature on the front to offer additional support when working with round metals.

• heavy-duty benchtop vise

  These large clamps are ideal for both professional and DIY use. They are sturdy with a cast iron steel body that can hold heavier workpieces. Their jaw widths and opening sizes are much larger compared to standard bench vises. Many heavy-duty bench vises come with a double row of serrated jaws for a more secure grip.

• Pneumatic Bench Vise

  This vise is operated by compressed air. A pneumatic bench vise holds workpieces faster and more securely than traditional bench vises. They are primarily used in the automotive repair industry.

• Quick-release Bench Vise

  The quick-release mechanism allows the user to rapidly move the jaw closer to the workpiece. The jaw can then be adjusted precisely towards the workpiece using a screw thread. This type of bench vise can be operated with one hand.

Specifications & maintenance of 12 bench vises

A 12-inch bench vise has several key specifications buyers should consider before purchasing. Some of these include the material used to manufacture the bench vise, the weight, and the various features it has to offer.

• Material: The materials used to manufacture the bench vise (cast iron or steel) impact its strength and durability. Cast iron is known to be heavy, rigid, and strong, with excellent dampening qualities. Steel, on the other hand, is more robust, hence offering increased durability over cast iron bench vises. Despite being less durable, cast iron vises can last a lifetime if properly maintained.
• Weight: The weight of the bench vise can impact stability during use and ease of installation. A heavier bench vise provides more stability and support when working with heavier materials. On the contrary, lighter vises are easy to install and relocate but may be less stable. A bench vise with a similar size and weight is suitable for reworking existing materials and providing more maintenance.
• Features: A bench vise may come with a variety of features that support functionality. For example, a quick-release feature allows the operator to disengage the screw rapidly by pulling a lever. This feature is beneficial during operations that require removing a workpiece quickly. A swivel base offers the flexibility to rotate the workpiece in different directions for easier access and angled positioning. Some bench vises also include an anvil used to strike objects with a jagged face, making them ideal for metalwork.

With proper care and attention, a bench vise can serve an operator for a lifetime. The 12-inch bench vise requires frequent cleaning to prevent the accumulation of dust and debris. Once in a while, users can immerse cast iron vises in soapy water and wipe them with a damp cloth. This prevents residue from lingering on the surface. It's also essential to dry the bench vise thoroughly to prevent rusting. This is especially crucial for cast iron vises. Rusting is a natural process that occurs when the iron parts expose themselves to oxygen and water.

Operators can use rust preventive sprays to keep the bench vise in excellent condition. Lubrication of the moving parts, such as the screw and jaw, can go a long way in enhancing the performance of the bench vise. Casting and oiling are the two common methods of lubricating a bench vise. Oiling routinely eliminates the need for constant waxing. However, frequent casting may wear out the bench vise more quickly. Nonetheless, this option improves the bench vise's movement.

Scenarios

There are lots of applications and scenarios, where a 12 inch bench vise can be used for various machining tasks in workshops, manufacturing units and DIY projects. This heavy-duty support equipment proves useful in a wide range of industries, including woodworking, plumbing, metalworking, electricals and ceramics.

Generally, a bench vice is employed to hold down objects firm in place so they can be cut, glued, drilled, filed, painted, welded, repaired, assembled, disassembled or fastenedTogether with a working glove, jaw pads are one of the most accessories that can an user's hands from hurting when using the bowl vice. They are usually soft padding and gripping that cover jaws. Tasks like welding, woodworking, hobbyist projects, repairing plumbing, painting, frequently using a 12 in bench vise.

Some utilize jaw pads to shield their bear jaws. Vise grips with interlocking cavities can better hold fasteners without stripping them. They can be picked up or skinny fasteners, making them ideal for dealing with bolts, nuts, and around the house and more than one use case. Harder subtle jaws are more durable than soft ones, but they may damage items. So, they're more suitable for metallic objects.

How to choose 12 bench vises

Consider the following aspects of a 12 bench vise when purchasing:

• Material strength

  The material strength is an important feature when selecting a bench vise. In general, bench vises are made of either iron or steel. Cast iron vises are an ideal choice for those who work with light materials such as wood. Their lightweight nature allows them to be easily moved around the workbench. Steel bench vises, however, are more suited for people who frequently work with heavier materials like metal. They are not only more durable than cast iron vises, but they also offer greater resistance against heavier weights and pressures.

• Jaw opening

  Commercial bench vises typically come in two sizes: large and small, with the latter being more common. A small bench vise usually has a jaw opening that ranges between 2 to 5 inches. For instance, the 12 bench vise model has a jaw opening of 12 inches. Choosing the right size bench vise with an appropriate jaw opening is essential, as it's necessary to accommodate the workpieces' sizes comfortably.

• Movable jaw

  A bench vise with four movable jaws can be a great option for holding workpieces in different positions. Generally, the movable jaws are designed to grip irregular and circular objects. They can be adjusted to fit the diameter of the workpiece. Another benefit of having a movable jaw bench vise is having an extra workbench holder.

• Peg holes

  Having a bench vise with peg holes can be beneficial, especially when working with longer workpieces. The peg holes allow for added customization and versatility of the bench vise. Pegs can be inserted into the holes to secure shorter workpieces more comfortably. Alternatively, a bench vise buyer can use it to hold longer workpieces by placing them horizontally.

12 bench vise Q&A

Q1: What metal is a bench vise made of?

A1: A bench vise is made of cast iron, which is sturdy enough to hold items tightly. Some manufacturers use carbon steel or alloy steel to make the bench vise, which is durable, rust-free, and long-lasting.

Q2: What materials can a bench vise hold?

A2: A bench vise can hold materials like metal, plastic, wood, and ceramic. The most common material to hold with a bench vise is metal.

Q3: How is a bench vise attached?

A3: A bench vise is attached in two ways - through bolts and with screws. In the bolt-through method, the vise is laid on the bench top and aligned. Then, the holes are marked and drilled on the bench. Then, bolts are used to secure the vise from the underside. The bolt-through method allows for permanent mounting, unlike the screw-down method.

In the screw-down method, the vise is positioned and aligned like the bolt-through method. However, the screws are used to secure the vise to the workbench. This method allows for easy removal and repositioning of the vise.

Q4: How is a bench vise used in metalworking?

A4: In metalworking, a bench vise holds metal pipes and bars during welding, cutting, or machining operations. The metalworking bench vise is mostly made of steel for durability and has replaceable jaws.