4140 Steel Fixture Plates Our 4140 steel fixture plates are our premier fixture plate line and best suited for daily use. Machined from semi-hardened (26-30 HRC) alloy steel, these are our strongest and toughest plates. Steel plates are roughly 2.5x heavier than an aluminum plate of the same size. Aluminum Fixture Plates A lower price and a lighter weight means that our aluminum fixture plate line has reduced shipping costs and easier installation while still providing the quality and function our fixture plates are known for. 7075 Aluminum (Anodized) Our anodized 7075 aluminum plates are an excellent mix of value, weight, and strength. 7075 aluminum is about 1.5x harder than 6061 and nearly twice as strong. Threads are form-tapped for increased strength. The anodize coating increases wear resistance, helps reduce scratches, and offers galvanic corrosion resistance. 6061 Aluminum Our bare 6061 aluminum plates are our value line offering. We take pride in the manufacturing process and tolerances of these plates and they are a great way to increase the workholding envelope, implement the SMW Mod Vise system, and minimize setup time on your CNC machine! Threads are form-tapped for increased strength. If installing a bare aluminum on a non-aluminum surface such as a bare machine table these plates must be used with a galvanic corrosion inhibitor (e.g. dielectric spark plug grease) and be removed frequently to inspect for condition and/or re-apply the corrosion inhibitor. Dielectric grease is available here.
