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Jigs and fixtures are two terms that people tend to use interchangeably. However, they are a little bit different regarding application and usage. They have one thing in common, though; both play a critical role in the mass production process. What is a Jig? A Jig is a useful tool which is used for guiding the cutting tools so that the accuracy of the output gets increased. A drill jig is the most common application used in drills that create holes on different surfaces. Experts say that jigs not only increase accuracy but enhance the work efficiency as well. It eliminates the need of scriber, center punch or square scriber. There are several industrial situations when applications of jigs and fixtures become inevitable. What is a Fixture? A fixture keeps the work piece at the precise location. According to experts, it also greatly reduces the nonproductive time of loading-unloading or fixing the work piece at the place. Let’s understand it with an example. A milling machine is used for giving shape to work pieces. If we don’t use fixture, then we have to spend time in fixing each piece every time it is placed on the bed. A milling fixture, on the other hand, removes the need of fixing the piece manually every time. It makes possible that the piece gets aligned every time automatically. It brings accuracy in the machine operation, and you can start operation without any hassles. Usage and applications of jigs and fixtures Both the tools reduce the production cost and enhance work efficiency. Since machine operators need not waste time in aligning and fixing the work piece, again and again, they can carry out more work in the stipulated time. • They increase production and accuracy • They reduce time • They offer excellent interchangeability • It is possible to hold even heavy and complex shaped articles well. • It eliminates the possibility of loss due to incorrectly drilled work pieces. Conclusion Both jigs and fixtures are greatly useful in reducing the operational time and increasing the accuracy. They are particularly effective when you need mass production. Jigs have a component called bush which comes in contact with the cutting tool. Thus, it guides the component accurately. A fixture, on the other hand, doesn’t come into contact with the cutting tool. Applications of jigs and fixtures assure the alignment and position of the work piece so that machine operations happen correctly. Applications of jigs and fixtures are many in the field of manufacturing and automobile industries.
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