Machining Systems: FAQS
Can I combine components from a smaller Bluco machining system with a larger Bluco system?
No. Your solution will include components from one of our three machining systems. While the modular components provided with your solution will all be compatible with each other and with any other Bluco modular component from that system, they cannot be used with components or tables of a different size.
My machine bed already has T-slots, why would I need a modular baseplate?
Because your machine spindle likes to know where your part is, which means you need to know where your fixture is. On a T-slot bed, a fixture can be anywhere. It has to be located every time, which means you lose production time. A modular baseplate only has to be located at installation. After that, the precision grid of alternating tapped and bushed holes guarantees that the fixture will be in the exact same place every time. Learn more about the advantages of modular fixturing for machining here.
Will I have to locate or probe my part every time?
No. Bluco modular tooling is accurate enough to guarantee your part is in the same place every time. So instead of wasting time unnecessarily locating and probing, after initial installation you can just load and go.
How accurate are your machining components?
Extremely accurate. Our standard modular components have tolerances of +/- 0.01 mm, while our largest machining components have a tolerance of +/- 0.015 mm. For perspective, the width of a human hair is 0.075 mm. The variance allowed by Bluco modular machining components is seven times smaller than that.
Can you provide tombstones for machining?
Yes, just tell us what you need. More commonly, however, we provide baseplates to fit your tombstone. We’ll discuss what works best for your application before preparing your quote.
What if I need a custom grid or hole pattern on my baseplate?
While the standard pattern of bushed and tapped holes must remain the same to work with our modular system, we can add extra tapped holes to the existing grid to allow for additional clamping options. We can also add a custom pattern of mounting holes that match up exactly with your machine bed to attach your plate to your machine easily.
Do you offer custom baseplate sizes and mounting options?
Yes. every baseplate is custom-made, and can be designed to fit any machine bed or pallet. We can add options like counterbored tie-down holes, mitered corners, custom mounting features (including permanent and quick-change options), as well as custom profiles to match a rotary table. Your application engineer will help you figure out which options will help you gain the most efficiency and the quickest ROI.
Can I use my own baseplate or table with your components, or vice versa?
In the words of one of our engineers, “Even if you could, you wouldn’t be happy about it.” Our modular components, bases and tables are specifically engineered to be used together. They pin together flawlessly, provide repeatable precision, help improve final part quality and boost efficiency. When a Bluco modular system is contaminated with outside components, you might still be able to hold a part, but you’ll be sacrificing precision, quality and efficiency. In addition, you risk damage to your own equipment, the modular components or your part when mixing and matching non-compatible systems.