Freeze Clamping Technology: Precise Workpiece Fixation Through Ice Instead of Mechanical Clamping

Distortion-free clamping without residue for precision manufacturing

Freeze clamping plates allow workpieces to be fixed securely and without mechanical clamping distortion. Instead of conventional clamping forces, this technology makes use of the natural adhesive properties of ice, comparable to frost forming on a windshield or dishes freezing solid in a freezer. The workpiece is placed on a moistened freeze clamping plate, which is cooled via a compressed-air heat exchanger, causing ice to form within seconds and fix the workpiece in place. The compact, single-piece plates allow for particularly fast deployment.
Since no mechanical clamping forces act on the workpiece during this process, neither deformation nor breakage occurs, eliminating the need for special workpiece preparation. Regardless of their shape, parts can be fixed on just one side, enabling five-axis machining in a single operation. After thawing, no residue remains on the workpiece, removing the need for time-consuming rework. Compared to other clamping methods, freeze clamping technology achieves a high nominal holding force on metallic workpieces, clearly exceeding that of vacuum clamping plates and remaining competitive with magnetic clamping plates.
The process is suitable for a wide range of hard and soft materials, from metal and plastics to ceramics and glass, as well as rubber and textiles. Freeze clamping technology has proven particularly effective for complex applications involving delicate workpieces in medical technology, precision mechanics and the watch industry, aerospace, and additive manufacturing of 3D-printed components.