Plate vices work using a simple combination of gravitational force and resistance.
During use, a workpiece is inserted through the appropriate grip port in the vice, with one end resting on the ground, and the vice frame leant towards it.
The weight of the workpiece exerts downward force on the plate vice at the point of contact.
Supported by the ground, the plate vice provides resistance.
As a result, both workpiece and plate vice support one another – the downward force exerted by the workpiece’s weight, when met with the resistance provided by the plate vice, prevents both objects from moving.
Though this may sound complicated, it is very simple; you are performing a similar process when you sit on a chair. Your weight provides downward force, holding the chair between your body and the ground, and the chair provides resistance, holding you up!
Can two plate vices be used together?
Yes – as an alternative, for holding objects so that neither end touches the ground, two plate vices of the same type may be used together – assuming a workpiece of uniform dimensions end-to-end.
To hold a workpiece with differing dimensions at either end, it may be possible to use two different types of plate vice together, but it is worth noting that this may affect the angle of the workpiece and stability of the support, should the two grip ports used sit at different heights in the frame.
In this case, each end of the workpiece is inserted into the appropriate port in a plate vice, and both plate vices leant toward the workpiece (and each other).
Using the same principle of force and resistance as outlined above, the plate vices and workpiece then support one another.
