A Chilling Embrace : Workholding With Ice

Abstract

This thesis explores the usage of ice as a fixturing medium in CNC machining of fragile components. Ice is used both as an adhesive and a potting compound to hold and support work during cutting. Measurements of ice adhesion strength as a function of workpiece material, roughness, and surface preparation are taken and analyzed. The research was carried out on a custom freeze chucking apparatus which was designed and constructed as part of the research. The results of the work show that ice can have substantial holding power, greatly exceeding machining forces, given that surface preparation is carried out in the prescribed manner.