Vise

Types of Vises

A machine called a vise is created with two parallel jaws that can hold and clamp an object. The design of a vise is such that one of the jaws is fixed permanently in position, while the other one moves vertically or horizontally to secure the item. Vise machines can be made out of metal, cast iron, or strong plastic materials. There are many different types of vises for holding a variety of objects, such as pipe-cutting machines, which have jaws shaped like a circle or an arc for holding pipes securely.

• Bench Vise

  The most common type is the bench vise, which is found on desk surfaces and used by handymen and carpenters worldwide. It is secured to benches and tables through fixed jaws, which provide the support needed to hold and clamp objects. This makes it easier to carry out tasks like cutting, sanding, or planning with one hand while the object is held with the other. The jaw width and opening range vary depending on the model. A regular-sized vise has a 10-inch jaw width with a 12-inch opening range, but larger models can have jaw widths of up to 20 inches.

• Machinist Vise

  Machinist vises are secured to workbenches and have features like movable arms and parallel jaws that can clamp objects tightly. An impressive feature of the jaws is the flat surfaces parallel to one another, and they can clamp and hold objects tightly without causing any deformation. In most cases, machinist vises come with a hand-operated lever or screw for moving one jaw, which is fixed, aligned, and cleaned before and after use.

• Pneumatic Vise

  Pneumatic Vise uses high-level clamping forces achieved through compressed air. This method, apart from being fast, has the advantage of exerting a very high power, which makes it very suitable for heavy-duty activities and to achieve excellent levels of machining, all of which makes the means of production much more efficient, and is extremely easy to use.

• Locking Vise

  Unlike most vises, which require two sliding surfaces to hold an object, locking clamps have one fixed jaw and another that moves horizontally or vertically, which is known as a clamping mechanism. The mechanism works like a trigger to move the jaw closer to the fixed object. When the trigger is released, the movable jaw goes back to its original position. Like the name suggests, the jaw can lock into position to hold objects tightly and securely while working with them. This locking mechanism is what differentiates them from other clamping machines.

• Ultrasonic Dental Vise

  Ultrasonic dental chops are holdfasts used by dental technicians and dentists to support dental work, like prosthetics, implants, bridges, and other orthodontic appliances. The device usually comprises two or more jaws that can hold and grip teeth model firmly. Usually, one jaw is movable, while the other is fixed. Most modern ultrasounds have user-friendly interfaces and are easy to navigate through the system menus. Other features include the ability to store and recall patient data and treatment history, high imaging speed that provides real-time tracking of treatment progress, and so on.

Specification & maintenance of a vise

The main specification for any type of vise is its size, which manufacturers show in terms of jaw width, jaw opening, and throat depth.

• Jaw width: For machinist vices, this jaw width could range from 75 mm to 300 mm. For others like a woodworking vise, it could be wider, sometimes up to 1,000 mm, as wood does not have any grain that can be damaged by wide jaws. The width of a vise jaw is the gap from one side of the jaw to the other, parallel to the beam that holds the movable jaw in place.
• Jaw opening: This is the distance between the jaws when they are fully opened. It ranges from 80 mm in smaller vices to 400 mm or more in larger ones depending on the type and size of the vise. This measurement determines the size of the object the vise can grip.
• Throat depth: This is the vertical distance from the top of the fixed jaw to the bottom of the table. For most vices, this distanced ranged between 50 mm to 200 mm. The throat depth determines how deeply an object can be clamped into the jaws.
• Weight capacity: Each type of vise has a maximum weight capacity that determines how much an object that it can hold without getting damaged or affecting the jaw alignment or holding power.

In addition to these main specifications, a user will also be interested in knowing the material of the jaw of a bench vise. Jaws with a softer material, like rubber or plastic, are meant to hold delicate objects, while metal jaws are ideal for rough use.

Like any tool, a vise needs some maintenance so it can continue to work effectively. The first step in ensuring the longevity of a vise is to choose one that is best suited for use. Store it properly so it does not get damaged. If it is an irreplaceable item, invest in some insurance and store it safely. For a bench vise, one would use a workbench storage cabinet to keep it safe and organized when not in use.

Cleaning and lubrication is maintenance on which machinist vices and woodworking vices rely on. Remove any debris that accumulates on the sliders and tracks. Use compressed air to blow out small particles from hard-to-reach areas. To clean the vise, use a wire brush or steel wool to remove rust or grime from its surface.

A cleaning solution may be needed for any paint or stickers that need to be removed. When finished, apply a coat of rust-resistant oil or paint to protect it from damage until the next use. The oil will keep it lubricated and functioning smoothly.

Scenarios of Vise

The versatility of the machines is astonishing. They are commonly used for:

• Woodwork projects

  Carpenters often use the woodworking vise to hold planks and beams with irregular shapes. The machining's jaws can hold pieces with odd geometries. Plus, the padded jaws won't blemish the workpieces.

• Welding components

  Welding vices secure pipes, tube, and other odd workpieces while a welder fuses them. The device has a unique jaw to grip pipes tightly. Some have a swivel base for adjusting the piece's angle.

• Metalwork tasks

  Metal vises are made to handle metalwork tasks. They have more gripping force and, in most cases, a smooth jaw design to provide extra holding power. Metalworking machines come in different types, including uniform, parallel, and patterned jaws.

• Install and remove plumbing fixtures

  Plumbers use the pipe vise to clamp pipes before cutting or joining new ones. This device holds the pipeline in place. As a result, the plumber makes precise cuts with minimal errors.

• Upholstery bags and suitcases

  Unisew clamping machines are helpful when sewing bags and suitcases. They hold materials when making complex tailoring parts. Besides, the tailoring machine makes precise cuts. It also reduces cut errors.

How to Choose Vises

• Target audience:

  Business buyers should first consider their target audience. Are business buyers targeting professional woodworkers or hobbyists? If they primarily sell to professionals, they need to consider professional-grade products. On the other hand, if the target audience is mostly hobbyists, they may consider lightweight and user-friendly products.

• Popular types:

  Business buyers should research popular types among retail customers. As mentioned above, stationary machines dominate the market due to their stability and gripping force. Nevertheless, universal ones with swivel tops are gaining popularity because of their flexibility.

• Quality:

  Quality is a crucial deciding factor for business buyers. Generally, quality-grade ones are expensive. However, business buyers should source premium-grade products to meet the demands of professional customers.

• Prices:

  Buyers mostly sell to end-users or resell to other businesses. If buyers are small-scale sellers, they may stock affordable products because small-scale end-users are price sensitive. When stocking affordable ones, ensure they have quality durability. If largely targeting commercial businesses, buyers should stock high-quality, premium products.

• Availability of suppliers:

  Strong suppliers will enable business buyers to easily avail themselves of the products. Strong suppliers will also provide business buyers with options to choose from. In addition, strong suppliers will offer competitive prices because they have low MOQ. This will enable business buyers to achieve decent profit margins.

• Latest trends:

  The latest trends in the industry should also influence business buying decisions. With an increasing number of people engaging in DIY projects, the demand for affordable tools is likely to increase. To take advantage of such opportunities, business buyers should stock user-friendly ones with ergonomic designs.

FAQ

Q1: How do bench vises work?

A1: The functioning mechanism of the vise is straightforward. The user will place the item to be held on the stationary jaw which is mounted on the bench. Thereafter, the user will turn the handle to move the movable jaw closer to the item. The movable jaw will hold or clamp the item firmly against the stationary jaw.

Q2: Do bench vises have weight limits?

A2: Bench vises do not have specific weight limits. The weight limit of the vise will depend on various factors. This includes the size of the vise, materials used to manufacture it, and and its overall build. However, applying excessive clamping force or overloading the vise beyond a reasonable limit can damage the movable jaw, stationary jaw or its threads and bearings.

Q3: Can one find a replacement for a broken bench vise part?

A3: Most manufacturers provide replacement parts for popular bench vise models. These include the screws, jaws and axle bearings. But, depending upon the model and manufacture, some parts may be hard to find. If one cannot find a replacement for a broken part, it is better to buy a new bench vise.