INSPECTION VICES & SINE BARS

Ultra precision metrology vices, sine bars and stages

Inspection Vices & Sine Bars

What are inspection vices and sine vices?

Inspection vices have exceptionally high accuracy and are designed for a variety of applications including precision grinding, precision milling, EDM and measuring (inspection) applications. Inspection vices are commonly referred to as toolmakers vices, EDM vices, grinding vices or toolmakers inspection vices. Most inspection vices are made of a precise, hardened and ground material (typically alloy or tool steel) for extreme durability.

Different styles and sizes of inspection vice are available. Angular inspection vices, for instance, have horizontal rotary ranges up to 360° and vertical inclines up to 45°. Precision sine vices are used in conjunction with slip blocks (slip gauges) for accurate angle setting. Sine vices are used for checking or inspecting parts at specific angles.

To work out the gauge block size required for a given angle, the user can either use trigonometry or consult an angle finder.

What are sine bars?

Sine bars are used to accurately set angles. Bodies consist of a precise and ground surface, usually made from an alloy or tool steel, with two cylindrical fixings at either end. The distance between these two cylinders is commonly referred to as the roller distance. Often, sine bars will have holes along its body which act as mounting holes to install a plate.

Like sine vices, sine bars use gauge blocks to set the bar at the required angle. To work out the gauge block size required for a given angle, the user can either use trigonometry or consult an angle finder.