What Is a Free Vise?
A free vise is a vise that can be adjusted to the size of the workpiece.
A vise is a work tool that can clamp an object from both sides with strong force. A vise has a limited opening at the mouth for clamping and cannot handle large objects. A free vise can be freely adjusted to fit the worktable, allowing for the fastening of large objects that cannot be accommodated with a regular vise. Free vises are often sold in sets of two to prevent deformation and damage.
Uses of Free Vises
Free vises are used in various fields in the metalworking and construction industries. They are used to secure objects during cutting, grinding, and welding.
The main unit is set up on a workbench or the like according to the size of the object. The main unit is then tightened with bolts to secure the object. Some products have a keyway machined into the bottom of the main unit and can use a step key for positioning. A step key is a fixture used to fix an object to be machined during machining.
Other Information on Free Vises
Pull-Down Vises
Strongly clamping an object with vertical (sideways) force may cause the object to lift off the workpiece. Some free vise products use a mechanism called “pull-down” to prevent lifting. This is a mechanism by which the main body of the product applies downward pressure to an object diagonally rather than straight down. Free vise products that use this mechanism are sometimes specifically referred to as pull-down vises.