Walk into most machine shops, and you’ll see huge chunks of machinery. The CNC routers, electronic measuring equipment, and cutting tools you’ll find on the floor are expensive, specialized assets that take a large investment to purchase.
You’ll also find some of the most important tools in your shop are some of the simplest. 1-2-3 blocks are a prime example of this. When you ask experienced machinists about the magic of 1-2-3 blocks: 5 underrated tools machinists swear by, they’ll often mention how these simple setup tools are some of the most useful tools they own.
Although today’s shops focus on advanced CNC machining equipment, much of your productivity and accuracy relies on helping tools. Accessories that make setups easier, ensure repeatable accuracy, and solve common machining problems. The right tools can save time and help your employees be more productive while they’re on the shop floor.
In this article, we’ll explore the magic of 1-2-3 blocks and four other shop tools experienced machinists use every day.
What Are 1-2-3 Blocks?
1-2-3 blocks are precision-ground blocks of metal that are 1 inch by 2 inches by 3 inches. They look simple, but they can be used for many different tasks around your shop.
Workers use these blocks for setup chores, inspection, layout work, clamping support, spacing, and more. 1-2-3 blocks are ground to precision so you can trust they’ll provide consistent reference dimensions anywhere in your shop.
You might see a worker use them to raise up a workpiece on a milling machine in the morning. Later that day, the same worker could use them to support a part during inspection. Then again that afternoon, they might be used to help with fixture setup.
Why Do Machinists Own Multiple Sets of 1-2-3 Blocks?
Machinists often own multiple sets because you’re going to find yourself constantly using them. The more blocks you have on hand, the more options you have to create compound setups.
Workers can use multiple blocks to create leveled support points under odd-shaped workpieces. They can even stack them together to reach certain heights when they’re laying out or inspecting parts.
High-quality 1-2-3 blocks are hardened and ground to very tight tolerances. This means you can expect them to keep the same precise dimensions year after year. For this reason, many machinists view them as one of the best investments they can make for their shops.
Why Do Machinists Still Use Edge Finders?
Although shops have embraced digital probing and high-tech CNC routers, edge finders are still one of the handiest tools you can own. These simple devices allow workers to quickly find the edge of a part.
Edge finders have a shank with a spring-loaded tip that visibly moves when it hits the edge of your part. They allow machine operators to find edges fast so they can reference them during machining.
Edge finders remain popular because they’re quick, reliable, and easy to use. They don’t require batteries, software, or complex calibration. As long as you do occasional verification checks, they’re ready to use.
In some cases, you can get accurate results within seconds.
How Do Parallels Make Life Easier?
Parallels are another tool that most experienced machinists use daily, but few people think about. These precision-ground bars are inserted into your vice to raise up your workpiece.
They create consistent bars across the entire face of your vise that you can support work on. Without parallels, it can be difficult to ensure your work is properly held in the vise.
If you have to machine multiple sides of a part, parallels let you raise your work up above your vise. This creates extra clearance for your cutting tools while ensuring everything stays perfectly aligned.
Many machinists consider parallels some of the most useful (and used) accessories in their shop. This is because they directly impact your ability to maintain accuracy and repeatability.
Why Are Precision Angle Blocks Handy?
Believe it or not, angle blocks are another setup tool that doesn’t get enough love. Precision angle blocks let you position parts quickly and accurately.
Instead of taking the time to build custom angle setups, workers can use angle blocks to create repeatable angles. They’re great for milling, drilling, inspection, and even fixture building.
Angle blocks help machinists quickly produce parts with angled features. They allow you to avoid guessing when creating setups and can help ensure consistency between parts. Angle blocks are ideal for prototype production, short runs, and inspection.
They help reduce setup time while maintaining tight tolerances.
Why Are Gauge Blocks Helpful?
Precision gauge blocks are some of the most accurate dimensional standards in the shop. You may not see them as much as cutting tools and vises, but they serve an important purpose.
Machinists use gauge blocks to check measurements, set dimensions, calibrate tools, and inspect parts. Gauges are incredibly accurate, which is why you can use them as dimensional references around your shop.
Digital readouts and dial indicators are great, but gauge blocks can serve as a physical representation of accuracy. They’ll always be useful for shops that need to ensure their parts and tools are within specification.
How Do Simple Tools Help You Become More Productive?
If you’ve spent any time around experienced machinists, you’ll quickly realize that small setup tools play a bigger role than you think. Big machines might do the cutting, but your supporting tools ensure the process starts out right.
Benefits of these underrated tools include:
- Quicker setups
- Increased accuracy
- Better repeatability
- Less scrap and rework
- More efficient inspections
When your workers can position their parts faster, they can begin producing parts faster. They don’t have to worry about missed steps and mistakes during setups.
While this may not sound like a big deal, everything adds up in the world of manufacturing. If you can trim minutes off of each part you produce, you’ll free up a lot of time throughout the year.
Why Do Experienced Machinists Prefer Tools That Are Easy To Use?
Tools like 1-2-3 blocks, angle blocks, and parallels are popular because they’re simple to use. Many high-tech tools require training and regular maintenance.
Something as simple as a quality set of 1-2-3 blocks can give you decades of use. When you don’t have to worry about software or complicated controls, you can focus on the task at hand.
Simple tools are also reliable. If a tool works the same way every single time you use it, you’ll have less variability in your processes. Experienced workers know that reliability goes a long way when trying to create repeatable parts.
Are “Must-Have” Tools Useful For CNC Machining and Manual Machines?
Tools mentioned here are great for any type of machining. Whether you’re running a manual mill or a multiaxis CNC machining center, you’ll use these tools to improve accuracy.
Workers in machining departments use them, but you’ll see them elsewhere. Toolmakers, inspectors, fixture builders, and maintenance workers can also benefit from high-quality setup tools.
As machines become more advanced, setups become more important. That’s why you’ll see these tools used across many different industries.
How Can I Find High-Quality Setup Tools and Inspection Equipment?
When looking for setup tools, not all products are created equally. Precision machining depends on gear that not only performs well but maintains that performance year after year.
Look for quality materials, appropriate hardness, tight machining tolerances, and overall craftsmanship. Depending on the tool, things like surface finish can be important as well.
While some tools may be less expensive, investing in high-quality tools can set you up for success. Not only will you see better accuracy, but your tools will last longer than cheaper alternatives.
Setup and inspection tools are the foundation of your machining processes. Take the time to pick tools that will help you improve your productivity.
Learn More About Thor Precision Resistors
Whether you ask about the magic of 1-2-3 blocks: 5 underrated tools machinists swear by or your favorite machine tool, every machinist has a few tools they consider underrated. While CNC machines and high-tech tools get most of the attention, your least glamorous tools play a vital role on the shop floor.
At C. Thorrez Industries, we take pride in our precision. Our team knows how important quality and consistency are to customers who work in the manufacturing industry. If you need high-performance resistor solutions or precision components. Reach out to learn more about what we have to offer today.
