Jigs and fixtures are two terms that often tend to be easily confused. In general, jigs refer to tools that hold or guide a cutting tool while it performs a repetitive operation. However, fixtures do not responsible for guiding a cutting tool but for keeping a workpiece steady in a fixed position or orientation. Both are essential tools in precision manufacturing. They can provide a stable and safe mounting point to support a workpiece, enhancing the finished parts’ accuracy, precision, dependability, and interchangeability. Using jigs and fixtures also helps manufacturers reduce errors, increase productivity, and reduce costs.

This article will explore jigs and fixtures, including their types, elements, benefits, applications, and differences. In addition, an introduction to how to manufacture jigs and fixtures will be put in the article. Read on and learn more information about jigs and fixtures.

What are Jigs?

Jigs are a tool that mainly helps control or guide the movement of a cutting tool like a drill and occasionally holds the workpiece simultaneously. Since their primary function is guiding and directing cutting tools, jigs are most typically employed for manual tasks, such as machining and drilling. In many circumstances, jigs are important for manufacturing because they help guarantee that parts are created to exact and repeatable standards.

A common jig use is drill bushings. They can aid with a drill’s proper positioning and angle as it passes through a workpiece. Therefore, a drill bushing leads to superior quality work and may also boost efficiency in production.

It should be noted that jigs are not necessary on CNC machines. These machines provide micron-level precision without assistance because the tool path is programmed digitally and stored in the machine’s memory. However, jigs are still utilized in smaller machine shops for help in manually machining specialized or customized parts and one-offs.