Version 6 of my CNC Clamps! This is a new modular clamping system, that 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.
The basic clamp is designed for CNC woodworking into 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.
The 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.
Side cam clamps can also be printed to allow you to side clamp your stock to machine the entire top.
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).
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 Fusion 360 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 download (a zip).
- 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.
Also included will be the prior version of the clamp system, in case you prefer the older design!
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“
