The bracket rocks until we tighten the clamp

RachelBarnes0609 · 28 Apr 2025, 13:15 UTC

Closed
RA
RachelBarnes0609
I'm checking the proposed FR10 inspection nest with actual milled brackets. Some rock on opposite corners before clamping, then sit flat when tightened. The drawing shows contact almost everywhere. Someone suggested a stronger clamp. I'd rather understand why they rock first. Where should I ask the toolmaker to look?

14 replies

CA
CallumBennett0708
Replying to RachelBarnes0609

At which surfaces are meant to locate it and which ones are accidentally touching, before anyone orders a bigger clamp

15 points
RA
RachelBarnes0609
Replying to CallumBennett0708

There are three bottom pads and a continuous ledge along one side. The ledge looks like it might touch the bracket's inside radius.

11 points
CA
CallumBennett0708
Replying to RachelBarnes0609

That radius is worth a look

3 points
EM
EmmaBennett0724
Replying to RachelBarnes0609

Check the actual samples and ledge for burrs too. Don't assume a clash in the design if a raised edge is holding just some parts up.

16 points
CA
CallumBennett0708
Replying to EmmaBennett0724

Yes, look before grinding anything away

9 points
RA
RachelBarnes0609
Replying to EmmaBennett0724

Nothing altered. Toolmaker is coming to check the contacts. The rocking follows particular brackets, not every sample, which is what made me hesitate.

2 points
JA
JaneChan1119
Replying to RachelBarnes0609

Have you kept the sample identities with your observations? It would help to compare the same rocking and stable brackets during the toolmaker's visit. Otherwise the useful difference can disappear into a box of similar parts.

0 points
CA
CallumBennett0708
Replying to RachelBarnes0609

Take the clamp out of the argument for that first seating check, under the toolmaker's bench method; clamping it flat can hide where it catches

4 points
AD
AdaAdams0129
Replying to RachelBarnes0609

Are those samples from the same machining batch? If the inside radius varies between batches, the drawing and sample measurements together may help explain why only some touch the ledge.

17 points
RA
RachelBarnes0609
Replying to AdaAdams0129

Two batches. I kept them in separate bags and marked which ones rock, so the toolmaker will have both groups.

19 points
AD
AdaAdams0129
Replying to RachelBarnes0609

That is enough to make a useful comparison. Include the drawing revision supplied with each batch if you have it, since a sample difference may have an intended explanation.

4 points
RA
RachelBarnes0609
Replying to AdaAdams0129

Same drawing revision on both delivery notes. I've put those with the samples. Thanks for the reminder, I would have left them in purchasing.

21 points
RA
RachelBarnes0609
Replying to RachelBarnes0609

And just to be clear, we haven't measured the radius difference yet. I only know which samples rock. Don't want my guess turning into the cause by the time the toolmaker arrives.

2 points
CA
CallumBennett0708
Replying to RachelBarnes0609

Fair enough. Let the contacts tell you

12 points

Discussion closed

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