Thursday, May 19, 2011

Soft Jaws on the Vise


There are countless occasions that soft jaws prove to be just the answer to holding difficult parts.

This somewhat thin and awkward, flanged tube needed a slot milled on the end, so in went the aluminum soft jaws. After boring a space for the tube and removing the temporary spacer, the part naturally aligned with the spindle. There is plenty of surface area to grip and no risk of yanking the part out of the vise.

Solid!

As you can see, the jaws have been used for other set-ups. I make and use new soft jaws frequently and sometimes save them for re-use.

Monday, May 16, 2011

Do You Have "The Knack"?


I know I have it. I'm glad that I do. I've managed to avoid becoming an engineer, though. Phew!

See the Dilbert Episode "The Knack" and you'll know what I'm talking about.