Your CNC machine requires a specific setup for accurate performance. Explore the advantages of using sub plates for your machine centers today. Whether you’re just setting up new equipment or looking to update your tooling plates, consider using sub plates for machining centers for a versatile, reliable and precise manufacturing process.
Versatile Applications
Sub plates are designed to keep your products secure. Some jigs and holders are designed to hold very specific pieces in place. Sub plates, on the other hand, offer a versatile platform to create the work holding setup you need.
Quality sub plates use a grid of tapped holes. This grid of evenly spaced holes is an ideal base to add any clamps, vacuum components and other fixtures. These securely hold pieces in place so your machining centers can perform the necessary machining process.
Unlike a custom fixture plate or a generic jig, a sub plate offers flexible positioning and versatile applications in your machining process.
Reliable Foundation
These plates come in a range of materials to provide the reliable foundation you need. Here are a few common material options available for your sub plates:
- Steel
- Acrylic
- Cast aluminum
Heavy workpieces and routine machining can warp bases that aren’t properly sized to your application. This not only compromises your work piece, but can also damage your machining center. A quality foundation keeps your equipment operating day in and day out.
Without a reliable foundation, you’re putting your equipment, workpiece and employees at risk. An unbalanced or unstable workpiece is a liability, so keep your operation safe with a sturdy plate.
Precision Performance
Calculate program zero with ease thanks to the numbering and lettering of your new sub plate. Your sub plate has precise spacing between each hole. This allows you to predict the program zero point. Simply find out where the component tool is located and measure in both directions from the hole. The exact spacing of each hole allows you to count and multiply the spacing instead of measuring each point individually.
High-Speed Convenience
Looking for a quick way to take on a custom order? Sub plates make it incredibly easy to remove particular work piece holders and install new ones. Alter prototype designs or create one-of-a-kind components for your clients without waiting for a custom sub plate.
This flexible design can dramatically accelerate your production schedule on unique orders. Don’t turn down custom parts manufacturing projects because of the tooling and sub plate adjustments necessary, but take on dynamic projects and continue to provide industry-leading services to all your customers.
Types of Sub Plates
Compare the types of available sub plates to determine the best option for your machining centers. These workpiece holders are ideal for the automotive, aerospace, heavy equipment, and other manufacturing industries. Here are common subplate options you can use in your custom component production or daily operations:
- T-slot
- Tapped hole
- Angle plates
- Vertical plates
- Round plates
Simplify your production process and accelerate your manufacturing schedule with a subplate. Compare new and used machine sub-plate options to determine the best setup for your facility. The primary differences between the sub-plates are the material used and the applicable fixtures.
Angle and vertical sub plates are for machining centers that operate on those planes. You don’t need to retrofit an existing subplate or machining center to match the operating direction. Instead, simply order angled or vertically mounted sub-plates to create custom work holding options for small runs or individual custom parts.
These are just a few common types of sub-plates. At Rayco Fixture, you’ll find a diverse set of plates for your industry and your specific machining center.