Summary for jig plate aluminum Discussion
Jig plate aluminum is the focus of this thread, where Jason Hall asks what it is and how it differs from ordinary aluminum when machining flanges. The discussion explains that "jig plate" is not a different metal family, but a specific type of aluminum plate made for tooling, fixtures, and machining work. Compared with general-purpose aluminum, jig plate is typically chosen because it is flatter, more dimensionally stable, and easier to machine accurately. That makes it useful when a shop wants a material that helps reduce setup trouble and improves consistency. The practical takeaway is that the shop mechanic was likely suggesting a better-suited aluminum product for the job, not a fundamentally different material. The thread centers on the distinction between standard aluminum stock and precision jig plate stock for machining applications.
Q. Upon machining aluminum flanges I was asked by the shop mechanic would I rather use the jig plate aluminum instead to make the job easier. I didn’t know what to tell him, so my question is what is jig plate? More specifically, how is it different from aluminum?
Jason Hall
student – Chicago, IL, U.S.
2004
I would pose that question back to him. If he’s your teacher, he should explain it to you.
T. Beyreis
– Wheeling, Illinois, USA
2004
A. I believe (?) jig plate is as-cast, with no further heat-treatment or processing. Any authorities to confirm?
Thomas Jrank
– Stanford, California, USA
2007
A. Jig plate is a carefully cast plate to cause a very fine grained microstructure, fairly uniformly across the thickness of the plate. It is used to make jigs (thus the name) and fixtures because of its exceptional dimensional stability owing of the fine, uniform microstructure.
Ivan Rodriguez
– Richardson, Texas
May 1, 2008
A. Aluminum Jig Plate: To answer your question… Jig plate is continuous cast and fully stress-relieved aged to full heat condition. The high accuracy finish, ground on both sides, eliminates the need or additional machining.
Frank Lento
– Rancho Cucamonga, California, USA
May 6, 2008
Q. If I have a customer asking for 9mm Jig Plate could I offer grades 6061, 2020 or 7075 aluminum plate in the CF temper?
Penny Johnson
– Corona, California
June 19, 2020