Although vee blocks are one of the most effective work holding tools to support cylindrical stock, there are a couple of alternative methods that can be employed.
Lathe chuck
A lathe chuck clamped to the table of your machine can be used to hold round or irregularly shaped parts. The jaws of the chuck work together to secure the part to the machine.
Collet and collet block
If you are using a horizontal milling machine, a collet, with a collet block, can be used to grip a round workpiece. The mechanical holding force of the collet is distributed around the whole part so the workpiece is held very securely, to ensure accurate machining.
Self-centring vice
A self-centring vice can be used on a milling machine or drill press to hold shafts and round workpieces. Its V-shaped jaws help to hold cylindrical parts tightly in place.
Utility vice
The movable jaw of a utility vice has a vertical ‘v’ groove for holding round workpieces.
Standard vice
If more than half of the stock is below the centre line of the fixed jaw, standard vices can be used to hold cylindrical parts. However, this is only effective with smaller workpieces.
