The modular vice system has been extended with the launch of the low-cost MMCZ and MMXZ modular strips that can be utilised singly or collectively - in line with users' throughput requirements and budgets - to boost productivity on vertical and horizontal machining centres, milling machines and grinders.

The new MultiVice MMCZ and MMXZ modular strips offer fast and accurate workholding as well as power and accessibility in confined spaces. The strips are 70 mm wide by 500 mm long by 45 mm high and are available with varying numbers of clamping positions:

• MMCZ 501 - one clamping position of 375 mm maximum;
• MMCZ 502 - two clamping positions each of 149 mm maximum;
• MMCZ 503 - three clamping positions each of 80 mm maximum;
• MMCZ 504 - four clamping positions each of 39 mm maximum;
• MMXZ 55/502 - two clamping positions each of 131 mm maximum.

The number of strips utilised is restricted only by the size of the machine table. Instead of locating and gripping components against centrally-fixed jaws, MultiVice MMCZ utilises 'Dual Action' vice jaws fixed to the base by dowel pins. This eliminates compound gripping force and generates a very stable and highly accurate vice system.

Leader Chuck Workholding - Vice

Each jaw has an integral moving jaw with 3 mm of clamping stroke. A permanently fixed jaw provides the datum, and each vice is subsequently fixed and positioned by dowel pins 'behind' the previous jaw at a distance dictated by workpiece size.

The quick-change false jaws feature an innovative design of positive dovetail location for continuous repeatability, and are available in a variety of materials. A flush fit between false jaw and vice body prevents the ingress of swarf. As well as achieving secure locking/unlocking with just a quarter turn of the key, MultiVice MMCZ provides these additional benefits:

• Rigid clamping gives increased tool life through less vibration;
• No component lift when clamping;
• Maximised use of the Z axis through its low height; and
• High clamping pressure.

Boasting similar characteristics, the MultiVice MMXZ provides two clamping stations, locating and gripping components against centrally-fixed jaws. MMXZ also features the angled jaw actuator wedge which is of particular advantage when the system is used on a two- or four-sided vertical tombstone. With positive dovetail location for continuous repeatability, MMXZ provides parallel, self-aligning clamping.