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==General Machine Shop Knowledge==

==General Machine Shop Knowledge==

Welding is the process of joining metals together. It is a form of additive manufacturing. There are several different types of welding, and the Welding Lab uses most of these including spot welding.  

Machining is the process of removing material so it is subtractive manufacturing. We have a variety of machines in the shop.  

In the Welding Lab, metals are joined together using MIG (Metal Inert Gas), TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas), Stick and spot welding.   

The 3 main processes include milling, turning, and drilling.   

Each welder has its own special purpose and benefits.  MIG is fast and much easier to learn than TIG welding. Spot welding is only used with sheet metal. TIG welding produces very clean welds and the heat is more confined to a smaller area. TIG will also allow you to weld very thin metals.  

Each machine has its own special purpose and benefits.  The drill press will produce holes quickly but normally has less precision than using a milling machine.  The lathe is normally used for making round parts and drilling. The metal laser is good for making fast precise cuts in sheet metal. The waterjet can cut steel up to 1" thick but it takes a long time to cut thick materials. The finger brake allows you to make bends in sheet metal.  The shear is good for cutting straight lines in thin sheet metal or making smaller pieces.

   

   

These are a few good steps to having a successful weld.   

Here are a few good steps to being successful in the Machine Shop.   

* Make sure the materials have no coatings. Welding of some coatings like galvanized metal can produce toxic fumes.  

* Make sure your workpiece is held securely before making cuts.  

* Materials should be properly prepped and clean for best results.  

* Metal can be hot and sharp so always be careful when picking up material pieces.  

* Make sure the process you are using is correct for your material type.  

* Make sure you you have been properly trained before attempting to use a machine.  

* Double check the weld settings and use a piece of scrap to practice before welding on your project.

* Keep hands away from moving parts on machines.

* Only weld steel and aluminum. Do not attempt to weld unknown materials.  

* Always ask if you have questions on how to do something.  

Here are a couple things to keep in mind:

Here are a couple things to keep in mind:

* Material will be very hot after welding so always think before touching.

* Material can be very hot after machining.

* Make sure the welder is properly grounded before attempting to weld.

* Machining can produce very sharp edges.

* Never weld in wet clothes or around water.  

* Never try to operate machinery when you are tired.  

* Never try to weld any type of tank that has ever held flammable liquids. This is very dangerous and can explode!

* Never work in the shop with loose clothing or items that could get pulled into a machine.

* Always check your welding hood settings prior to welding. (start with a darker setting and work your way down.

 

== Foxtale Certification ==

== Foxtale Certification ==