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Engineering Vices

Our Engineering Vices are essential tools for Workshops and metalworking. Choose from a selection of quality engineering vices, from hobbyist and woodworking to professional daily use, all with a 1-year guarantee included. Buy your Engineering Vices online, or contact our sales team for advice and information. - Click to learn more about Engineering Vices

More information about Engineering Vices

Top-Quality Engineering Vices and Clamps

Discover our extensive range of high-grade Engineering Vices and Clamps, meticulously crafted to meet the diverse needs of your business. Our collection includes an array of metal working vices designed to deliver exceptional performance and durability. Whether you're operating in the automotive, construction, or manufacturing industry, our products are built to withstand the rigours of heavy-duty applications and ensure precision in every task.

Our Engineering Vices are renowned for their robust construction and reliable functionality. They are an essential tool for any business that requires a secure grip for their workpieces. With our metal working vices, you can confidently carry out your operations, knowing your workpiece is firmly in place. These vices are perfect for various tasks, from shaping and bending to cutting and assembling.

Explore our selection of Engineering Vices and Clamps today and experience the difference in quality and performance. Our commitment to excellence ensures that you receive the best value for your investment. We're here to support your business and help you achieve your operational goals with our top-tier products.

Understanding Engineering Vices

Engineering Vices are essential for securely holding materials and workpieces during drilling, cutting, sawing, and planning. They are instrumental in woodworking, metalworking, and DIY garage use. Depending on the model, engineering vices can be bolted permanently onto a workbench or adjusted using clamps.

Choosing the Right Engineering Vice from First Mats

First Mats offers a variety of engineering vices, including jaw drill vices, fixed-base vices, compound vices, hobby vices, and woodworking vices. Each type serves a unique purpose, from the Jaw Drill Vices designed for vertical drillers to the Dovetail Hobby Vice, perfect for smaller projects. All our vices have a 1-year guarantee against breakage, ensuring quality and durability.

Things to Consider

Material and construction: When purchasing vices and clamps, it is essential to consider the material and construction quality. Look for sturdy and durable materials such as cast iron or steel, as they will provide better stability and longevity.
Jaw size and capacity: Ensure that the vice or clamp has an appropriate jaw size and capacity to accommodate the workpiece you intend to hold. Consider the maximum opening width and depth to ensure it can securely hold the desired materials.
Clamping mechanism: Evaluate the clamping mechanism of the vice or clamp. Look for features like quick-release mechanisms or adjustable handles that allow for easy and efficient clamping and release of the workpiece.
Jaw design: Consider the jaw design, as it can greatly impact the versatility and functionality of the vice or clamp. Look for features like serrated jaws or V-grooves that provide better grip and stability for different types of materials.
Stability and rigidity: Assess the stability and rigidity of the vice or clamp. Look for features like a solid base or mounting options that ensure the vice or clamp remains securely in place during operation.
Accessibility and adjustability: Consider the accessibility and adjustability features of the vice or clamp. Look for options that allow for easy adjustment of the jaws or positioning of the workpiece, enabling precise and efficient work.
Compatibility with workbench or workstation: Ensure that the vice or clamp is compatible with your workbench or workstation setup. Consider factors like mounting options, compatibility with existing fixtures, or additional accessories or adapters.
Safety features: Evaluate safety features in the vice or clamp. Look for features like built-in safety stops, protective covers, or ergonomic handles that enhance user safety and prevent accidents during operation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a clamp and a vice?

Clamps and vices are both essential tools in the world of engineering, but they serve slightly different purposes. A clamp is a versatile tool to hold objects firmly in place during various tasks. It typically consists of two jaws that can be tightened together using a screw or a lever mechanism. Clamps are commonly used for woodworking, metalworking, and other precision tasks where a secure hold is required.

Conversely, a vice is a more heavy-duty tool for holding larger and heavier objects. Vices usually have a fixed base and a movable jaw that can be tightened using a screw or a handle. They provide a sturdy grip and are often used for tasks that require significant force, such as cutting, drilling, or shaping materials.

In summary, while both clamps and vices hold objects, clamps are more versatile and suitable for smaller tasks, while vices are designed for heavier-duty applications. Whether you need a clamp or a vice depends on the specific task and the size and weight of the objects you need to hold securely.

What are vices in engineering?

Vices in engineering are essential tools that provide a secure grip and hold on workpieces during various machining and fabrication processes. They are designed to firmly hold materials in place, allowing engineers and technicians to work with precision and accuracy. Vices are commonly used in metalworking, woodworking, and other engineering applications.

In the UK, engineers rely on vices to securely clamp materials such as metal rods, pipes, and plates, enabling them to perform tasks like cutting, drilling, shaping, and welding. These versatile tools come in various types, including bench vices, machine vices, and woodworking vices, each tailored to specific engineering needs. With their robust construction and adjustable features, vices ensure stability and safety, enhancing productivity and delivering high-quality results.

At First Mats, we offer a wide range of vices and clamps manufactured to meet UK engineers' demanding requirements. Our selection includes top-quality brands known for their durability and reliability. Whether you need a vice for your workshop or a specific engineering project, our team of experts is here to assist you in finding the perfect vice that suits your needs. Invest in a high-quality vice today and experience the difference it makes in your engineering endeavours.

What are clamps and vices used for?

Clamps and vices are essential tools used in engineering for securely holding and stabilizing workpieces during various tasks. Clamps are versatile devices in different shapes and sizes, designed to hold objects firmly in place. They are commonly used in woodworking, metalworking, and welding applications. Clamps provide stability and precision, ensuring that the workpiece remains steady and secure while you work on it.

Vices, on the other hand, are heavy-duty tools that are specifically designed for holding and gripping objects firmly. They typically have two jaws that can be tightened together using a screw mechanism. Vices are commonly used in engineering workshops for drilling, cutting, filing, and shaping tasks. They provide a strong and stable grip, allowing you to work confidently and accurately.

Both clamps and vices are indispensable tools for any engineering professional or DIY enthusiast. They offer the support and stability required to carry out precise and intricate tasks effectively. Whether you are a professional engineer or a hobbyist, investing in high-quality clamps and vices will undoubtedly enhance your workmanship and ensure successful outcomes.