4 inch vise

Types of 4-inch vises

A 4-inch vise is a tool with two parallel jaws used to hold an object stationary. It comes in different types, each with unique features.

• Machinist vise:

The machinist vise is commonly used in metalworking. It is used for tasks such as cutting, drilling, and filing metal with ease. This vise is built for durability and has a rectangular jaw design to hold workpieces tightly. Its parallel jaws ensure even pressure distribution. Some include a built-in anvil for additional metalworking assistance.

• Pitman arm vise:

  Also referred to as the heavy-duty or the large-frame machinist vise, this tool resembles the standard machinist vise, but with one movable jaw. The movable jaw is mounted on a lead screw that moves it towards and away from the fixed jaw. This mechanism allows for holding larger and thicker workpieces. Adjusting the screw provides holding a workpiece with a greater range of thickness. The pitman arm vise is mainly used in heavy-duty metalworking and machining applications.

• Bench vise:

  The bench vise is one of the most common vises men will find in workshops. It is mounted on a sturdy workbench, which provides stability when working on a variety of tasks. This task includes woodworking and metalworking. The bench vise features two parallel jaws, one fixed and another with a slide mechanism that allows for adjustments to workpieces of varying thicknesses. Due to its versatility, the bench vise is available in many sizes.

  Pipe vise:

  This tool is primarily used in plumbing applications to secure pipes. However, some can be found in metalworking setups. The jaws of a pipe vise are specifically designed to hold cylindrical objects like pipes. It is made out of cast iron or other sturdy materials and can be frequently used with plumbing tools.

Specification and maintenance of 4 inch vise

Some specifications of the 4 inch vise are as follows.

• Jaw width: The jaw width of the 4 inch vise is usually 4 inches or about 100 mm. It refers to the width between two jaws of the vise. The larger the jaw width, the larger the workpiece that can be gripped.
• Material: Metal vices are usually made of cast iron. Material strength determines the 4 inch vise's durability and clamping force.
• Mounting method: Bench vises are usually mounted to a workbench. An embedded mounting vise needs to be stable, which allows the clamp to work on stationary objects. A user may fixed mounted or screwed them.
• Clamping force: The clamping force of the 4-inch vise is large, which enables users to fix the object they work with tightly.
• Rotating base: Some 4-inch vises are equipped with a rotating base. The rotating base allows users to adjust the angles of the jaw to up to 90 degrees, which provides additional flexibility.
• Guide rails and nut: The sliding jaw of the 4 inch nut is driven along the guide rails by the screw and nut, thereby improving the stability and precision of the clamping process.

Maintenance tips for 4 inch bench vise are as follows.

• Clean: Keeping the vise clean is vital for longevity. Users can use brushes, scrapers, or other tools to remove chips and debris from the jaws and grooves of the jaws after use. Cleaning loosens the clamping parts so that the next use is more convenient and efficient.
• Lubricate: Applying lubricant to the screw and guide rail is beneficial to maintaining the 4 inch vise's smooth sliding and clamping function.
• Grease: Users can choose the appropriate grease according to the material and operating environment of the vise, which can effectively prolong the life of the vise.
• Check bolts and screws: Users must regularly check the bolts and screws to ensure their firmness. They may loosen due to the vise's continuous use and vibration over time, which may affect stability and safety.
• Dust cover: A dust cover is optional for vises. Dust covers can prevent dust and debris from entering the inside of the vise, protect its precision and function, and prolong its service life.
• Avoid overloading: Avoid overloading during use as it may damage the clamping mechanism and precision.

Scenarios of 4 inch vises

4 inch bench vises are used widely in construction and other industries.

• Metalwork industry

The nature of work in the metalwork industry requires multiple tools. A sturdy metal bench vise can secure a variety of metal parts as they are sawed, filed, drilled, or welded.

• Woodwork industry

A woodwork bench uses a woodworking vise. However, an aluminum or iron 4 inch bench vise can also work for carpentry. Such a tool secures wooden pieces for cutting, gluing, nailing, or drilling.

• Automotive repair shops

Automotive repair technicians use metal or specialized 4 inch machinist vises. The tools hold car parts such as valves, cylinder heads, brackets, and pistons while they are repaired or assembled. Some automotive bench vises have special features such as an anvil for striking metals or swivel bases for easier alignment.

• Construction industry

Like the automotive industry, various parts are joined together during the building process. Machine parts, plumbing pipes, window frames, and other hard-to-hub construction components can be held in place by a bench vise as they are welded, drilled, or cut.

• Jewelry making and locksmithing

Locksmiths and jewelry technicians buy mini 4 inch vises to hold small parts while craft locks or jewelry pieces. Their bench tools have precise jaws so they can hold small shaped items. Some also have rotating platforms for easy access to any work area.

• Hobbies and DIY

Some hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts looking to complete household projects need bench tools for temporary uses. They need a sturdy tool to stabilize parts whenever they are gluing, painting, or fixing a household component.

How to choose 4 inch vises

Consider the following factors before buying a 4 inch bench vise:

• Type of vise

  Determine the type of 4 inch vise required based on the intended application. Workbench vises are typically mounted onto benches or tables. However, if a user works with limited bench space, a clamp or C-frame vise that can secured to an improvised surface is a better option. For more delicate woodworking projects, an woodworker vise with wooden grips is suitable. Alternatively, an angle vise for metalwork provides better gripping as its jaws can pivot and hold objects at different angles.

• Load capacity

  Determine the maximum load capacity of a 4 inch machinist vise required based on the weight of workpieces to be held. Choose a model with an appropriate weight rating to ensure safe and reliable performance during use.

• Grip strength and surface area

  Select a vise model with sufficient grip strength and jaw surface area to securely hold workpieces without slipping or damaging the surface. Consider factors such as material composition and contact pressure distribution when making this decision.

• Jaw opening size

  The jaw width and opening size of a vise determines the maximum width of workpieces that can be accommodated. Choose an appropriate model based on the size distribution of items commonly worked on during normal operations.

• Mounting method

  For those who wish to mount their vise permanently (like with a post or bench mount), choose one with an appropriate mounting style. This suits the work surface where one intends to mount it. Ensure compatibility among all components involved so assembly processes occur seamlessly without any difficulties.

4 inch vise Q & A

Q1: What are the main parts of a vise?

A1: The main parts of a vise include the head, the jaw, the screw, the handle, the movable jaw, the stationary jaw, the body, and the base.

Q2: What does the screw do in a vise?

A2: The screw is responsible for the gripping function in a screw-type vise. As the handle turns, the screw threads push the movable jaw forward or backward, changing the distance between the jaws. This process allows for the opening and closing of the vise to grip or release objects.

Q3: What is the difference between a hand screw and a vise?

A3: A hand screw is an apparatus that possesses two flat-faced, movable portions known as hands. They are usually known to be used in woodworking. On the other hand, a vise is a device with two jaws that grip an object steadily to cut, hold, or clamp.

Q4: How is a vise used safely?

A4: To use a vise safely, one needs to ensure the proper equipment. Only use tools designed for clamping. That means learning how to identify various types of jaws of a vise and choosing the most appropriate one. Also, ensure no one is standing close to the device before clamping.