a clamping system for use in air float tables in machine tool and other environments wherein the workpiece supporting fixture is supported on a cushion of pressurized air established between it and the surface of the table . the clamping system comprises one or more t - clamps mounted within the table for vertical rectilinear movement under the action of a pneumatic or hydraulic cylinder , and a t - slot in the lower surface of the fixture which is capable of receiving the t - clamps , preferably through enlarged entry openings at various places along the slot . with the t - clamps received in the t - slots in unclamped condition , the fixture is guided by the t - clamps as it is moved about on the table . when the fixture has been located in the desired position , pneumatic or hydraulic pressure is applied to the cylinder thereby drawing the t - clamps downwardly so that they clamp the fixture to the table . the t - slots may be arranged in a number of different patterns , for example , orthogonally related straight slots , circularly arranged arcuate slots , and closed circular slots . this arrangement permits the fixture to be easily moved about on the table in a controlled manner , accurately located , and then clamped in place with minimal effort required on the part of the machine tool operator , as in the case where the air float system is part of a machine tool , such as a milling machine , boring machine , etc .