FAQs

What is gold grip?

​Gold Grip is a modular CNC workholding system that uses repositionable bases, backstops and clamping heads to secure components across a machine table. It applies horizontal and downward clamping force, allowing manufacturers to hold large, irregular or multiple parts while keeping more machining surfaces accessible.

How is Gold Grip different from a conventional machine vise?

​A conventional machine vise holds a component within a fixed jaw opening and uses a limited area of the machine table. Gold Grip separates the clamping and backstop modules so they can be positioned around the workpiece. This allows the system to accommodate larger and more complex components while applying both horizontal and downward clamping force.​

What types of machines are compatible with Gold Grip?

Gold Grip can be configured for CNC mills, horizontal boring mills, planer mills, tombstones and angle plates with compatible T-slot mounting. Because machine tables and mounting requirements vary, compatibility should be confirmed using the machine model, table dimensions, T-slot size and spacing.

What sizes and types of components can Gold Grip hold?

​Gold Grip can secure smaller components, multiple parts and large workpieces such as plates, rings, housings, castings and weldments. It is particularly useful for irregular, flame-cut, waterjet-cut and difficult-to-fixture components. The practical part-size limit depends on the machine table, machine load capacity and the number and configuration of Gold Grip modules.​

Does Gold Grip replace existing workholding?​

Gold Grip can replace many conventional vises, toe-clamp setups and dedicated fixtures, but it is not intended to eliminate every workholding method. It can also complement zero-point systems, fixture plates and other existing equipment. The best approach depends on the component geometry, machine configuration, production volume and required repeatability.

How rigid is Gold Grip under heavy cutting loads?

Gold Grip is designed for high-load machining applications. Each clamping head applies horizontal and downward force and can provide up to 8,000 pounds of clamping force when used according to the published torque specifications. Actual setup rigidity depends on the number and placement of clamping heads, component geometry, table mounting and machining forces.

How long does setup take compared with conventional workholding?

Setup-time savings vary according to the component, machine and existing workholding method. Gold Grip can reduce setup time by eliminating welded tabs, custom fixtures and repeated repositioning. Its modular components can also be moved and reconfigured as production requirements change, allowing more machining operations to be completed before the part is reset.​

Is Gold Grip suitable for production work or only prototyping?

​Gold Grip is suitable for prototyping, high-mix machining, short production runs and repeat work. Its modular configuration is particularly valuable when part sizes and geometries change frequently. For very high-volume production of one unchanged component, a dedicated fixture may still be appropriate; Gold Grip is strongest where flexibility, machining access and rapid reconfiguration provide greater value.​