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Vises or vise clamps are used in every bandsaw operation: woodworking, metalworking, and for cutting various objects.
Both vise and clamp are used to describe the same thing, but technically, a vise clamp refers to a portable or hand-held clamping tool and a vise refers to a bench-mounted clamp.
Both serve the same significant role in the cutting process: to hold materials in place, allowing work to be performed.
They are particularly useful in cutting irregular or curved shapes but can also be used to produce straight cuts. They perform better at steady hold than flesh & bone hands, making it a safer bet as well.
Vises are versatile enough to be used on a variety of materials and profiles. Their steadiness makes them ideal for heavy-duty work, which is why they are often used in workshops and throughout the metal cutting industry.
The purpose of the vise clamp varies depending on operational features, shape, size, design elements, and material construction.
On a typical bandsaw, there are two vise clamps situated parallel to one another. The work load is placed between the two vises using an apparatus that allows the clamp to apply a certain amount of pressure.
Pressure adjustment varies depending on the bandsaw model, the type of vise used, and especially work piece dimensions.
Safety needs consideration as well. Vises secure the material in place so it can’t slip or roll over during a cutting process. If proper vise pressure is not applied, accidents may occur with large materials or bundles that will damage the bandsaw machine or injure the operator.
Proper vise pressure is utilized to achieve a positive end result. Vises provide precision and stability during cutting by restricting material movement without marring surfaces or leaving dents. The vise will help to eliminate deformation of thin wall materials and reduce scarring on soft materials.
Some bandsaw machines come equipped with a vise pressure control valve. This feature prevents material deformation and flaws by decreasing the clamping force of the vise. It allows the saw to maintain optimum clamping force while cutting.
Another is the hydraulic pressure gauge. This is used to visually indicate optimum pressure at a glance, making it easier and more convenient for an operator to track and make vise pressure adjustments in an ongoing process.
The vise is important, and it is up to the operator to select the right parts for the machine they will use. It also helps that they understand the right way to use the tools created to aid the operator in any cutting application.
The vise/vise clamp will work to perform at its best to help achieve maximum cutting efficiency.
