As reported by Quality Magazine in their article “Fixturing 101: Crucial For Quality“, proper fixturing is essential for ensuring accuracy in part inspection and maintaining repeatability in manufacturing. Effective fixturing reduces operator error, stabilizes parts during inspection, and enhances efficiency by minimizing downtime. Experts like Doug Emory of Renishaw emphasize that consistent fixturing allows for seamless part measurement, helping manufacturers achieve reliable results while saving both time and money.
According to Allan DeLisle of Phillips Precision, many inspectors struggle with time-consuming setups, relying on inefficient solutions like putty or machining vises. Modular fixturing systems, on the other hand, allow manufacturers to build custom fixtures quickly, reducing machine downtime and increasing throughput. Planning fixturing alongside part design ensures that inspection remains a priority from the start, allowing teams to maintain efficiency as production speeds increase.
With tighter tolerances and more complex parts becoming the norm, the demand for hybrid fixturing solutions—a mix of modular and permanent setups—is growing. Linda Goodwin-Marino of Paul Marino Gages notes that modular tooling continues to evolve, offering solutions for diverse materials like plastics, aluminum, and steel. These advancements give manufacturers cost-effective and flexible fixturing options, making inspection more streamlined.
Choosing the right fixturing solution depends on factors like part volume, complexity, and measurement method. For low-volume and prototype parts, modular fixturing is ideal, as it can be reused for multiple applications. High-volume production parts, however, often require custom fixture solutions for increased stability and efficiency. Hybrid methods, where modular setups remain intact for repeated use, offer a balance between flexibility and consistency.
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Article with all rights reserved, courtesy of Quality Magazine.