A model to predict minimum required clamp pre-loads in light of fixture–workpiece compliance

The determination of minimum required clamp pre-loads is an important process in the design of machining fixtures. This paper presents a linear, clamp pre-load (LCPL) model that can be applied to fixture–workpiece systems whose compliance is load invariant. The model considers the static deformation of the fixture–workpiece system in response to the clamping process and the machining process. Sources of compliance throughout a fixture–workpiece system are considered. The model computes the minimum required pre-loads necessary to prevent workpiece slip at the fixture–workpiece joints throughout the machining process.This paper also describes an experimental study that was used to characterize the accuracy of the LCPL model with regard to the application of a ramping external load to a fixture–workpiece system. Over the contact conditions tested, the LCPL model was observed to overestimate the minimum required clamp pre-loads by an average of 7%. This experimental study also revealed the sensitivity of the computed pre-loads to the relative compliance of the fixture elements as well as the coefficient of friction.