Low profile CNC clamps! Side profile CNC Clamps!
This download includes a lot of things:
- CNC Clamp Files v6.zip – The latest version of the clamps that have replaceable tips. There are a lot of options, with standard tip heights: 1/2″, 3/4″, 5/8″, 1″, 1.25″, 1.5″ and 2.0″. Also included is a “side clamp” tip, and a “vice” tip.
- REGULAR CNC Toe Clamp Files v4.zip – The regular clamps, which work great and are a bit easier to print, as you’d don’t have to dial in the fit of the tip. I still use these on a regular basis!
- Side Cam Clamp Files v1.zip – The stand alone “side clamp” with various tip heights. I generally prefer having a dedicated set of side clamps, but you can also use the “side clamp tip” with the more modular version.
This new modular clamping system combines several clamp styles based off one reusable body. NOTE: if you bought an older version, email me and I’ll send you the latest!
This is a digital download – STL model files for 3D Printing, along with complete directions on how to print and use them, and the original Autodesk Fusion 360 CAD File.
The basic clamp is designed for CNC woodworking with a t-track slot or t-nut hold down system. The system is modular; a basic body base can be used for low profile toe clamps, a side cam clamp, or a side vice clamp. Or, you can use the single piece “Regular” version or the dedicated “Side Cam Clamp” version.
The modular clamp tips are easily interchangeable, allowing you to use the same base for different height stock pieces. The tips are very cheap to print; about $0.25 for 6 clamp tips at 3/4″ height. Hitting a plastic tip with your CNC bit is no problem — it won’t hurt your bit and you can print a new tip without having to print an entire new hold down!
Clamp heights are pre-exported at 1/2″, 3/4″, 5/8″, 1″, 1.25″, 1.5″ and 2.0″. You can flip the base body backwards and use the tail to clamp down heights thinner than 1/2″. The clamps are low profile; only 0.100″ tall and 0.200″ of overhang into the workpiece, and these settings are also customizable.
A new “vice clamp” can be attached to produce a really wide vice-like clamp; it spans a 5″ spaced t-track (other sizes can be created from the Fusion file).
Also included are three “holders” can also be printed to organize everything!
The directions include steps on how to customize the parameters and export the Mesh as an STL for 3D printing. Printing and using the nut-handles is purely optional; you can tighten the nuts with a wrench to get more clearance when needed, and/or just pop the printed nut handle off! Or, screw them directly down into your spoilboard or t-nuts.
The files are designed for “imperial / standard” t-tracks that support 1/4-20 T-bolts. You will have to source your own hardware to complete these: 1″ 1/4-20 hex bolts (1-1/4″ long will also work), 1/4″ washer and 1/4-20 nut. A link below are the ones I purchased from Amazon.
I’ve done massive cuts with my Avid 4×8 CNC without my workpiece moving, or any hold downs failing. This is iteration version 6; new releases will be available as a free download (email me for access).
For customization, some knowledge of Autodesk Fusion will be useful. Fusion 360 is a CAD and CAM program available for macOS and Windows as a free download, and most users can get a free hobby license depending on how they use the software.
Files included in the “CNC Clamp Files v6.zip” zip file:
- CNC Clamp XXXX.f3z – the Autodesk Fusion 360 file
- CNC Clamp Directions v6.pdf – The directions on how to print and use the clamps
- Body – Regular Length – The modular body at 2″ long, with 5 tolerance options.
- Body – Long Length – 4″ long version of the body, also 5 tolerance options
- Clamps – The low profile toe clamp attachments, 0.5″ to 2.0″ – 7 STLs and 7 3MFs
- Nut Handles – small and large height versions – 2 STLs and 2 3MFs
- Cam Clamps – Cam Body attachment, Side Cam Clamp at 0.5″, 0.75″ and 1.0″, Vice Clamp at 5″ t-track
- Holders – 3 Gridfinity based holders to organize: Body Holder, Clamp Holder, and Cam Clamp Holder
- Body Click Fit Tests – Test files to find a good “click fit” tolerance for your particular 3D printer and filament.
You are welcome to contact me if you have any questions before or after purchasing!
T-bolts that I use in my T-track (Amazon Affiliate links):
- 1” — https://amzn.to/47Wr61Y
- 1.5” — https://amzn.to/488Lk84
- 2” — https://amzn.to/3uXqt9L
NOTE: If you bought a previous version, please email me and I’ll send you the latest version!
Corbin Dunn owns the copyright on these files. The copyright is not transferable upon sale. It is illegal to sell, share or distribute digital designs and plans purchased from here.
You are welcome to sell the physical 3d printed clamps, but please be sure to add a note stating: “Design by Corbin Dunn – https://www.corbinsworkshop.com“
