Let's talk clamps!

CNC Machines
1

Hello all! I’ve done some deep maintenance and reassembly on my Shapeoko 3xxl, and it’s due for a new spoilboard on top.

Previously. I was using the Matchfit CNC kit by Microjig, which works well, but the spoilboard tends to bow with all the dovetail slots in it. This led me to considering switching to T-track and MDF slot in boards, but I’m trying to figure out which clamps work best with the t-track and clear the dust boot. I’m often running 1/8" bits so I’m closer to the surface.

I’d love to hear what you’re using! What’re your thoughts on the matchfit system? Should I just cut a front and back fence and pin nail everything?

2

MATCHFIT CNC Kit | #1 Best-Seller in Jigs and Fixtures A link to the kit I’m referencing.

3

Have you tried the one sold by Carbide 3D? I started with them and now I print them myself on my 3D printer. They give the files for free.

4

these only work if you have the hybrid table, not an option for the Shapeoko 3.

5

It is the Teez-Nutz which work with the Hybrid T-tracks — the balance of the workholding may be used with any machine using suitable hardware such as the threaded inserts:

6

yes, not to fully say they’re unusable, just not in all the ways shown with the hybrid table tracks compared to t tracks.

The ability for the clamps to sort of self align by dropping into the spaces between the spoil boards on the hybrid table is a great feature you don’t get when using then on a regular track or an insert.

Without going from a 3XXl to a 4 and up Shapeoko, I’m probably going to go with Mcmaster T Track McMaster-Carr as this takes a hex head bolt or nut compared to https://www.rockler.com/universal-t-track-universal-t-track which is built for a flat headed (toilet) bolt. All of this to say, I’m still between the microjig clamping system and t tracks.