Which pair of devices is commonly used to hold a workpiece in milling?

• A. Dial indicators and micrometers
• B. Vise and clamps/fixtures
• C. V-blocks and parallels
• D. Lathe centers and tailstocks

Answer: (B)

Holding the work securely on the milling machine is essential for accurate, safe cuts, so the typical setup uses a milling vise on the table, with clamps or fixtures to lock the part in place. A vise provides a strong, flat, parallel grip, keeping the workpiece from moving in any direction during cutting. Clamps and fixtures extend that capability, letting you secure irregular shapes or multiple parts and position them precisely for the operation at hand.

Dial indicators and micrometers are measuring tools used to check dimensions, not to hold parts. V-blocks and parallels help with locating or supporting a workpiece during setup or inspection, but they don’t provide the same rigid, repeatable hold needed for milling operations. Lathe centers and tailstocks belong to turning on a lathe, not milling, where the work is rotated and supported differently.