Fixtures and tools in manufacturing are predominantly custom-made one-offs, which means their production involves considerable effort and expertise.
In the field of toolmaking, highly skilled tool mechanics—also known as toolmakers—design and manufacture fixtures and tools. These tools and fixtures are used to optimize machining processes, assembly, and quality control of workpieces and production equipment in both craft and industrial manufacturing environments. Toolmaking plays a critical role in producing precise, high-quality products.
CNC machines are often employed in the production of tools and fixtures. These computer-controlled machines enable precise and efficient manufacturing, resulting in greater accuracy and repeatability of the parts produced.
Toolmaking can be divided into various specialized areas, each focused on specific applications and technologies:
- Forming tools: This category includes stamping, drawing, pressing, and blow-molding tools used to shape sheets, tubes, or other materials into the desired form.
- Molding tools: These include plastic injection molding and pressing tools, foundry tools, and extrusion tools. They are used to shape raw materials by casting or pressing molten material into molds.
- Fixture construction: This area focuses on producing specific clamping devices required for manufacturing certain workpieces or components. These fixtures ensure precise positioning and secure holding of parts during machining.
- Gauge making: This involves producing gauges used as testing and reference devices. Gauges are essential for verifying the accuracy of manufactured products and ensuring they meet prescribed standards.
Toolmaking is a vital part of the manufacturing industry, contributing to optimized production processes, consistent part quality, and ultimately delivering high-quality end products to the market. The expertise of toolmakers combined with the use of CNC technology is essential to developing innovative solutions for a wide range of manufacturing challenges.