Custom CNC Workholding Solutions
Workholding decides how quickly a part can be loaded, how accurately it repeats, and how much of the cycle is actually cutting. Innovat3D designs custom workholding solutions around your part, your machine and your process.
That can mean a complete fixture, a set of jaws, a locating nest, a sub-plate arrangement, or a modification to workholding you already own.
Problems this solves
- Excessive time spent clocking parts in on every batch
- Distortion or movement under clamping load
- Poor access for tools around clamps and dogs
- Multiple parts per table with no consistent datum
- Operators loading parts inconsistently between shifts
Typical applications
- Sub-plates and pallet systems for repeat setups
- Multi-part tombstones and grid plates
- Location nests and stops for repeatable loading
- Clamping arrangements designed around tool access
- Modifications and add-ons for existing vices and chucks
Benefits
Reduced setup time
Load, clamp, go — with location built into the tooling rather than the operator.
Repeatable results
Consistent datums across batches, shifts and machines.
Better tool access
Clamping designed around the tool paths, not fought against them.
Less distortion
Support and clamp positions chosen to hold without deforming the part.
Operator-friendly
Clear, obvious loading reduces mistakes and scrap.
Who we work with
- CNC milling and turning shops
- Production engineering teams
- Manufacturers running frequent changeovers
- Businesses scaling a part from prototype to batch
How it works
- 01
Review the setup
Current method, cycle time, machine, datums and pain points.
- 02
Concept
Options proposed with the trade-offs between cost, rigidity and speed set out plainly.
- 03
Detail design
Full 3D CAD with clamping, access and clearance checked.
- 04
Manufacture
Produced in the material and process suited to the duty.
- 05
Commission
Support during first setup, with refinements where they will help.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between a fixture and workholding?
- Workholding is the general term for anything that holds a part on a machine — vices, chucks, clamps and fixtures. A fixture is a purpose-made item designed for one component or family of components.
- Can you work with our existing vices?
- Yes. Custom jaws, nests and adaptors that suit workholding you already own are often the quickest and cheapest improvement.
- Do you need our CAD models?
- They help, but a drawing, a sample part or good photographs with key dimensions are enough to start.
Related services
CNC Fixtures
Custom CNC fixtures designed and manufactured by Innovat3D in Stoke-on-Trent. Fixture design, locating nests and machining aids for UK engineering and manufacturing.
View CNC FixturesSoft Jaws
Custom soft jaws for CNC vices and chucks, including 3D printed soft jaws that grip profiled parts without marking. Designed and made by Innovat3D, Staffordshire.
View Soft Jaws3D Printed CNC Fixtures
3D printed CNC fixtures and additive tooling from Innovat3D, Stoke-on-Trent. Fast, lightweight workholding in engineering-grade polymers for UK machine shops.
View 3D Printed CNC FixturesInspection Fixtures
Custom inspection fixtures, checking gauges and CMM holding fixtures designed and manufactured by Innovat3D in Stoke-on-Trent for UK quality and manufacturing teams.
View Inspection FixturesCAD Design
Professional 3D CAD design services from Innovat3D, Staffordshire. Product design, tooling design and manufacturing drawings for UK engineering companies and innovators.
View CAD DesignDiscuss your application
Send CAD files, drawings, photographs, dimensions, an existing part or simply a description of the manufacturing problem — whatever you have is enough to start. Based in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, Innovat3D supports engineering and manufacturing customers throughout the UK.