Fixtureworks now offers three styles of spring-loaded work supports ideal for the accurate positioning and orientation of workpieces for machining, fabrication and inspection layouts. The Imao fixturing supports are offered in four block-type sizes, five cylinder-type sizes and three miniature versions.
The supports allow users to locate foundation pieces virtually anywhere on a fixture base where workpiece support is required, following contours, shoulders, different diameters and varying heights. The supports help stabilize the piece, and assure that clamping devices hold secure, preventing chatter and/or deflection of parts when under loads and machining forces. The springloaded feature of the support plunger provides cushioning as a workpiece is loaded and simplifies release and unloading operations.
The block style supports provide to 2,020 lb of load support capacity and feature a low profile for versatile, flexible application. Support height can be raised or lowered by rotating a socket head cap screw while the support itself has a tapped hole to accept a replaceable contact element, reducing wear and tear on the support structure and surfaces. Supports are pre-machined with hole and counterbore for mounting from top using socket head cap screws.
The cylinder-type work supports also offer load capacities from 895 to 2,020 lb and include the tapped hole in the top of the plunger for use of a contact element. The cylinder series features a fastening stud on the bottom with tightening access of a hex wrench for easy, lowprofile mounting. A side screw is included that locks the height of the support plunger in place to bolster rigidity and accuracy of part location.
The compact mini work supports are good for limited space locations as the diameters measure approximately half that of the three smallest standard size cylinder units. They are for lightduty operations with load capacities of 44 lb, 67 lb and 89 lb for the three sizes.
A larger, knurled thumb knob is provided for locking the support plunger in place after part loading, and a bottom stud with hex shoulder allows for simple fixture-plate mounting using hex end wrench.
All three styles of spring-loaded work supports are manufactured from alloy steel and given a black oxide finish.
