Laminated Magnetic Parallels and V-Blocks

What are magnetic parallels and V-blocks?

Permanent magnetic parallels and V-blocks are precision-ground accessories that are used with magnetic chucks for workholding and clamping during machining, grinding, and similar operations. Parallels are square or rectangular prismatic shapes that raise the workpiece up, holding it securely in place with magnetic force. V-blocks are v-shaped on one side with a flat base and are used to hold tubes, rods, and other non-flat workpieces.

Using magnetic parallels and V-blocks with permanent or electromagnetic chucks eliminates the need for mechanical clamps, which can mar or distort the workpiece or obstruct access to the workpiece. They are made of alternating thin layers of magnetic steel and non-magnetic stainless steel, which are laminated and copper-brazed to create a solid and durable piece that transfers the magnetism of the chuck to the workpiece. The laminated design also minimizes magnetic flux leakage and reduces heat buildup. This helps to keep the holding force consistent over time.

Features of Laminated Magnetic Parallels and V-Blocks

Different materials and part geometries require different workholding solutions. Magnetool’s line of laminated magnetic parallels and V-blocks suit any setup, from toolrooms to production lines.

We manufacture each unit to high standards of accuracy, ensuring surfaces are ground square and parallel within a few ten-thousandths of an inch.

• Laminated magnetic parallels. These parallels are designed for holding flat or rectangular parts. They feature alternating layers of steel and stainless steel that ensure efficient magnetic transfer and minimize losses. They also maintain excellent flatness and parallelism. They are available individually and in matched pairs.
• Laminated magnetic V-blocks. V-blocks support workpieces in a 90-degree angled groove that runs the length of the block, parallel to the workpiece. They are commonly used to hold solid rods and tubular workpieces, as well as odd-shaped pieces.
• Custom sizes from small to very large can be manufactured. Discuss with us your custom needs.
• High precision. All standard parallels and V-blocks are ground square to within 0.0004 in. and flat to within 0.0002 in.
• Customizable. Our parallels and V-blocks are single solid pieces, so they can be cut, ground, or machined as needed with no risk of layers coming apart.
• Copper brazing. Copper-brazed joints impart high strength and enhance thermal and electrical conductivity for better heat dissipation during machining and prevent distortion.

Benefits of Laminated Magnetic Parallels and V-Blocks

Laminated magnetic parallels and V-blocks deliver significant advantages over cast aluminum blocks and conventional clamping systems, especially in high-precision environments. Their ability to hold parts magnetically allows machinists to avoid physical clamps that can obstruct tool paths or cause distortion on delicate components.

Key advantages include:

• Uniform holding power. Laminated construction ensures uniform magnetic distribution, which prevents the workpiece from shifting under cutting loads. This translates to better surface finishes, tighter tolerances, and faster part setup.
• Quick setup and release. Because they can be quickly positioned and removed, these tools also improve workflow efficiency and reduce downtime between operations.
• Precision and accuracy. Surfaces are ground for tight tolerances and accurate part alignment.
• Extended life. Laminated and copper-brazed designs resist heat, corrosion, and demagnetization.
• System compatibility. Fully compatible with Magnetool permanent and electromagnetic chucks for seamless integration.

Applications

Laminated magnetic parallels and V-blocks are widely used in grinding, milling, drilling, and inspection applications where precision positioning and secure grip are essential. They allow machinists to clamp a variety of part shapes, such as flat, cylindrical, or irregular, with equal security and consistency.

Common uses include:

• Surface grinding and cylindrical grinding.
• Milling of flat, round, or custom components.
• Layout and inspection of machined parts.
• Short-run or prototype setups requiring flexible workholding.
• Transferring magnetic fields from chucks to complex or multi-piece assemblies.

Laminated Magnetic Parallels and V-Blocks from Magnetool, Inc.

Magnetool, Inc. has led the industry in magnetic workholding technology for over 70 years. Each laminated magnetic parallel and V-block is designed and built in the USA with attention to precision, durability, and quality.

All Magnetool products are constructed from premium material laminations, precision-ground for squareness and flatness, and tested to verify consistent magnetic strength. Each tool is designed to complement Magnetool’s permanent and electromagnetic chucks, creating a complete workholding system for any application. Contact us to learn more.