Difference between revisions of "Welding Shop"

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The Welding Lab has multiple welders including a TIG, MIG and Plasma cutter!The welding shop consists of a 280 sq. ft room.  It contains a Welding Table, MIG Welder, TIG Welder, Spot Welder, Plasma Cutter, Blasting Cabinet as well as a Fume Boom for ventilation.  There is a first aid kit located on the east wall.   [[File:prototype_lab.jpeg|300px|thumb|The Prototype Lab]]
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[[File:Welding Shop Logo.png|300px|frameless|left]][[File:Welding_Shop.jpg|400px|thumb|right|The Welding Shop]]
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The Welding Lab has multiple welders including a TIG, MIG and Plasma cutter. The welding shop consists of a 280 sq. ft room.  It contains a Welding Table, MIG Welder, TIG Welder, Spot Welder, Plasma Cutter, Blasting Cabinet as well as a Fume Boom for ventilation.  There is a first aid kit located on the east wall. One of the first things you should do when walking into the lab is turn on the fume extractor and light switch.  When you leave the space make sure to turn off all the machines, close all gas valves and reset the space.
  
 
The current Aces of the {{PAGENAME}} are '''{{#show: {{PAGENAME}} |?Has ace.Has name}}''' ({{#show: {{PAGENAME}} |?Has ace.Has email address}}). <br />
 
The current Aces of the {{PAGENAME}} are '''{{#show: {{PAGENAME}} |?Has ace.Has name}}''' ({{#show: {{PAGENAME}} |?Has ace.Has email address}}). <br />
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{{#set:
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  | is facility = True
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  |Has ace=Wyatt Bertis; wbertis22@georgefox.edu
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  |Has certification=https://georgefox.instructure.com/courses/1263
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}}
 
__TOC__
 
__TOC__
  
 
=Schedule=
 
=Schedule=
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View the most up-to-date {{PAGENAME}} schedule [https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1xCN_BBKVIlBQyfPtv62ENxinOEKwJADMFcH0Gyy-ul8/edit?usp=sharing on this Google Sheet.]
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The welding shop is open by appointment only. Please email Makerhub@georgefox.edu for access.
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=Equipment Overview =
 
=Equipment Overview =
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}}
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==Equipment by Icon==
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{{#ask:
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[[Is equipment::True]][[Has icon::+]] [[Is located in facility::Welding Shop]]
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|?Has icon=Icon
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|?Is located in facility
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|format=plainlist
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|template=EquipmentIconGallery
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|outrotemplate=EquipmentIconGalleryOutro
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|limit=100
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|link=none
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|sort=Is located in facility
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}}
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==[[3 commandments]]==
 
==[[3 commandments]]==
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=== 1. Safety First ===
 
=== 1. Safety First ===
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Safety First is the rule we hold highest of the three. This rule applies to both the safety of you as well as others
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Safety First is the rule we hold highest of the three. This rule applies to both the safety of you as well as others.
  
 
Keeping yourself safe in the Welding Lab is very important, as there are possibilities for accidents if you don't follow the safety guidelines. The following rules must be followed at all times.
 
Keeping yourself safe in the Welding Lab is very important, as there are possibilities for accidents if you don't follow the safety guidelines. The following rules must be followed at all times.
  
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These are the basic rules for safety in the Welding Lab:
 
 
*Safety glasses must be worn at all times.
 
*Safety glasses must be worn at all times.
 +
*A face shield is required when operating the pedestal grinder.
 +
*When producing sparks pay attention to their direction.
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*Never stand on or kink any of the equipment leads.
 
*No horseplay in the shop.
 
*No horseplay in the shop.
 
*Don’t do anything distracting to yourself or others while operating equipment.
 
*Don’t do anything distracting to yourself or others while operating equipment.
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* Do not wear any loose clothing, jewelry, or landyards.
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*Do not wear any loose clothing, jewelry, or lanyards.
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* No open toed shoes.
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*No open toed shoes.
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* Hair will not extend bellow the collar.
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*Hair will not extend bellow the collar.
 
*Gloves and helmet must be worn when welding is in progress.
 
*Gloves and helmet must be worn when welding is in progress.
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*No bare exposed skin when welding.
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*No bare exposed skin when welding or cutting. Leather welding jacket is to be worn if welding or cutting.
 
*Food or drink is not allowed in the Welding Lab.
 
*Food or drink is not allowed in the Welding Lab.
 
*Do not attempt to operate equipment that you have not been certified on by GFU engineering personnel.
 
*Do not attempt to operate equipment that you have not been certified on by GFU engineering personnel.
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=== 2. Reset the Space ===
 
=== 2. Reset the Space ===
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The Prototype Lab has a specific organization to it, even though sometimes it looks like chaos. Put whatever you use back where it belongs. There is a place for everything and everything has a place. This rule applies to everything in the space. If you move a chair, put it back. If you use a tool, put it back. If you use a pen, put it back. Do not leave your projects in the Prototype Lab, take them with you. Do not leave random note sheets that pertain to nothing out. Throw away your trash and recycling.
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The Welding Lab has a specific organization to it. Put whatever you use back where it belongs. There is a place for everything and everything has a place. This rule applies to everything in the space. If you use a tool, put it back. If you use a pen, put it back. Do not leave your projects in the Welding Lab unless you have made prior arrangements. Throw away your trash and recycling.  
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We have allowed food and drink in the space. Resetting the Space means that you don’t leave wrappers, or trays, or anything that wasn’t there when you came in.
 
  
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If you are employed in the space, this still applies to you. Do not take tools from the Hub and then store them in the Lab. If we need more tools, speak with Ben and Gabi and they can evaluate the situation and, if necessary, they will get more tools.
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Now, we understand that sometimes you need to leave projects out. Maybe you are in the middle of a large project and you need something left overnight. In cases like this, it is okay, but you NEED to make prior arrangements  with Nick or Justin.
  
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After you have started your project on a machine, make sure to clear the project from the program on the Prototype Lab computer. If you have a part you want to reuse, place the part inside the Prototype Lab Part Storage Folder on the computers.
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Please put back the equipment the way you found it. Make sure the welding gas is SHUT OFF. The welding cables should be neatly wrapped back onto the welders after they have been allowed to cool. Never step on or kink the welding cables and lines.
  
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Now, we understand that sometimes you need to leave things out. Maybe you are in the middle of a large print and you need something to run overnight. In cases like this, it is okay, but you NEED to '''''leave a note''''' on your system so that others know the situation.
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Always put any unused materials back on the storage shelf, and throw away unusable scrap.
  
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When parts finish on a 3D printer, remove them from the build plate and place them in the completed parts bin so that the owner can pick up their part.
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Sweep the floor and welding table when done.  
  
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Always put any unused materials from the laser cutter back on the storage shelf, and throw away unusable scrap.
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Make sure to shut off the lights and room ventilation before leaving.  
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Clear the computer of any files or images left over after completing your project.
 
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Sweep when needed.
 
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Immediately clean up any spilled Formlabs resin.
 
  
 
Always leave the space better than you found it.
 
Always leave the space better than you found it.
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This commandment has two sides to it. It covers the idea of acting like professional (which Webster’s defines as “exhibiting a courteous, conscientious, and generally businesslike manner in the workplace”). The term also describes the standards of education and training that prepare members of the profession with the particular knowledge and skills necessary to perform their specific role within that profession. Hopefully, you are learning both of these as part of your education at George Fox University. In the Welding Lab we expect you to develop as a courteous, conscientious, and skilled craftsman, understanding the tools and equipment in the Maker Hub and how to use them effectively.
 
This commandment has two sides to it. It covers the idea of acting like professional (which Webster’s defines as “exhibiting a courteous, conscientious, and generally businesslike manner in the workplace”). The term also describes the standards of education and training that prepare members of the profession with the particular knowledge and skills necessary to perform their specific role within that profession. Hopefully, you are learning both of these as part of your education at George Fox University. In the Welding Lab we expect you to develop as a courteous, conscientious, and skilled craftsman, understanding the tools and equipment in the Maker Hub and how to use them effectively.
  
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Being a professional has some obvious ramifications in terms of behavior. First, be Christlike. Think of others better than yourselves. Share. If you have been printing a lot or using the laser cutter for a prolonged time and someone else is waiting for the machine, let them use the machine for a while. This is being a professional.
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Being a professional has some obvious ramifications in terms of behavior. First, be Christlike. Think of others better than yourselves. Share. If you have been welding  for a prolonged time and someone else is waiting for the machine, let them use the machine for a while. This is being a professional.
  
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If you are working with a machine, and you don’t know the proper way to do what you are attempting - ASK SOMEONE! Learn! Become a professional. Learn the craft. This is an educational space. You might think it will be quick and you can just get it done “your” way and not learn how to do it correctly. Be a Professional and learn the proper way, and then be available to teach others.
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If you are learning to weld, and you can't get something to work the way you want - ASK SOMEONE! Learn! Become a professional. Learn the craft. This is an educational space. You might think it will be quick and you can just get it done “your” way and not learn how to do it correctly. Be a Professional and learn the proper way, and then be available to teach others.
  
 
One very important, and likely difficult part of being a professional is to correct others when they are not being professional. It is your responsibility to speak up when you see somebody doing something inappropriate. If you see somebody doing something unsafe, not resetting the space, or being unprofessional, the professional thing to do is to remind them of the three commandments and ask them politely to correct their action. This is OUR space, not any individual's. As a group, we expect everyone in the space to keep the space safe, clean, and operable for everyone. 
 
One very important, and likely difficult part of being a professional is to correct others when they are not being professional. It is your responsibility to speak up when you see somebody doing something inappropriate. If you see somebody doing something unsafe, not resetting the space, or being unprofessional, the professional thing to do is to remind them of the three commandments and ask them politely to correct their action. This is OUR space, not any individual's. As a group, we expect everyone in the space to keep the space safe, clean, and operable for everyone. 
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==General Welding Knowledge==
 
==General Welding Knowledge==
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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, TIG, and MIG.  
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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.  
  
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In the Prototype Lab, objects are most commonly printed from an STL file. This means if you create a part in SolidWorks that you must save the file as a .stl instead of a .sldprt . Once the file is in STL form, it can then be processed by a slicer software. The slicer software converts the 3D model into thin layers and produces a G-code file. G-codes communicate with the chosen 3D printer, giving it directions on how to print the object.  
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In the Welding Lab, metals are joined together using MIG (Metal Inert Gas), TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas), Stick and spot welding.  
  
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Different 3D printers will run with different slicer programs. Typically a program will allow you to edit various parts of the process. One common consideration will be the layer thickness. This is the resolution at which the printer will print at. Each printer will have its own range of resolution. The thinner the layer thickness (higher resolution), the more detail you will get, but the print will be created more slowly. The thicker the layers (lower resolution), the less detail you will receive, but the object will be printed more quickly. Another consideration is support. For objects with overhangs, holes, etc., support will be needed. This will give the printer a surface to print on so that it can continue to build the print layer by layer. Each printer uses supports differently. Some printers have break away support while other have dissolvable support material.
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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.
 +
 +
These are a few good steps to having a successful weld.
 +
* If you experience a fire alarm while working in the Welding Lab turn off the welder power/exhaust fan if you safely can and proceed to the nearest safe exit.
 +
* Make sure the materials have no coatings. Welding of some coatings like cadmium plating or galvanized metal can produce toxic fumes that could be fatal.  
 +
* Argon acts as an asphyxiant and will displace oxygen. Do not work in a confined space with argon do to the possibility of a low oxygen condition.
 +
* When setting gas pressure for any of the welders make sure you follow the recommendations listed. 
 +
* Materials should be properly prepped and clean for best results.  
 +
* Make sure the process you are using is correct for your material type.
 +
* Double check the weld settings and use a piece of scrap to practice before welding on your project.
 +
* Only weld steel and aluminum. Do not attempt to weld unknown materials.  
 +
Here are a couple things to keep in mind:
 +
* Material will be very hot after welding so always think before touching.
 +
* Make sure the welder is properly grounded before attempting to weld.
 +
* Never weld in wet clothes or around water.
 +
* Never try to weld any type of tank that has ever held flammable liquids. This is very dangerous and can explode!
 +
* Always check your welding hood settings prior to welding. (start with a darker setting and work your way down.
 +
* Welding takes lots of practice so don't be afraid to ask for help.
  
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Keep in mind that '''every print should be recorded in the Job Log'''. This allows the Lab to track the material usages and success rates of the printers, as well as recording the prices of every print. To record your print in the job log, go to the [https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/16fEdNcuvR_GSNV2Emy1P7SpJdetXU7ts9uQy-Ok7dRk/edit?usp=sharing Job Log spreadsheet] and fill out the required fields. A good time to fill it out is right after you have finished setting up a print. 
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{{#evu:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ygLbldJF_dc}}
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[[File:3Dsupports.png|250px|thumb|right|Example of an object (blue) printed with supports (white)]]
 
  
−
There are common places of potential failure which you should watch for every print. The following points of failure specifically apply to FDM prints.
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==General Bead Blasting Knowledge==
−
*Adhesion:
+
Bead blasting is the process of using compressed air to propel small glass beads for ablating and cleaning a material surface. Different types of blast media are used in industry including Soda, Walnut shells, Sand and many more material types.<br><br>  
−
**When the print first starts, it is prudent to ensure that the filament is properly adhering to the build plate.
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These are a few good steps to having Success with glass beading.
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**Watch the print until the first dozen layers have been printed to make sure it is starting off successfully.
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* Make sure the material is free from heavy grease and dirt.  
−
**The print can start sliding around the plate at anytime, although it is much more likely to fail toward the beginning of the print.
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* The material needs to physically fit into the blast cabinet.
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**A tall and skinny print is much more likely to struggle with adhesion than a short and stout print. Taking time to discern the best orientation for your print is always a good call.
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Here are a couple things to keep in mind:
−
**Adding a raft (sometimes called a brim) will also help if you print is struggling with staying adhered to the plate.
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* Never point the nozzle at the gloves or window.
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*Clogging
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* Make sure the power switch is turned on before use.
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**Sometimes the extruder will clog causing the print to fail.
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* Always wait 5 minutes after use before opening the cabinet door. This gives some time for the dust to settle.  
−
**This typically can be seen when a clump of filament balls up at the end of the nozzle.
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* Never try to bead blast anything flammable. Blasting can sometimes create sparks.
−
**If this occurs, immediately cancel the print and remove the clumped filament. Make sure that the nozzle is still able to extrude filament, if not, you may need to open up the extruder and clean it. Keep working on it until you are able to extrude filament again.
+
* Keep liquids out of the cabinet.  
−
*Air Extruding
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* Never activate the foot pedal with the cabinet door open.  
−
**This means that the extruder thinks it is extruding filament when it really is not.
 
−
**Immediately cancel the print. Then restart the print.
 
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**If the printer is still air extruding, cancel the print and unload the filament. You can try reloading and starting the print again.
 
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**If the problem persists, you will probably need to take the extruder apart and clean it out before attempting any further prints.
 
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=== 1. Printer Types ===
 
−
There are many different types of printers, such as Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), Stereolithography (SLA), Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), Selective Laser Melting (SLM), Digital Light Processing (DLP), Electronic Beam Melting (EBM), Laminated Object Manufacturing (LOM), Binder Jetting (BJ)... Each printer type employs different materials. The Prototype Lab has FDM and SLA machines.
 
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Information about FDM and SLA printers and which machines these are and what materials they can use which. In each printer's page, one can simply link it to this so they don't have to describe materials, just simply state which ones are used with it. Mostly this is all here so I remember to do it or someone else sees it and wants to do it.
 
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==== <span id="SLA Printing Anchor">SLA Printing</span> ====
 
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[[File:InvertedSLA.png|302x302px|thumb|right|Inverted SLA Process]]
 
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Stereolithography, SLA, is a part of the manufacturing technology of vat polymerization. This means a light source (laser) is used to cure liquid resin into a hard plastic.
 
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The Form 2 is the only 3D printer that the Prototype Lab has that is an SLA printer. It utilizes the Upside Down or Inverted orientation.
 
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The resin tank has a clear bottom with a surface the resin will not stick to. This allows the resin to cure against the bottom of the tank.
 
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The build platform is lowered into the resin until it is hovering above the bottom surface of the tank, as far away as the height of the layer to be constructed.
 
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The laser is directed through the bottom of the tank and cures a layer of resin onto the build platform. Then, the resin tank slides over and the build platform raises. The wiper will then sweep across the tank to circulate the resin.
 
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The build platform will lower again, and the process will be repeated until the print is completed.
 
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Due to friction caused by de-laminating every layer, every part should be canted in its orientation. This means the part should be angled to reduce the cross sectional area needing to be shifted to de-laminate each layer. This de-lamination also causes the Form 2 to be the Prototype Lab's slowest 3D printer.
 
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Once a part is finished on the Form 2, it must be removed off of the build plate. Try to avoid scraping the build plate when removing parts. Any excess resin must be washed off using the Form Wash, the part must be air dried so that any isopropyl alcohol from the Wash has evaporated, the part should be cured in the Form Cure, and supports should be clipped off. Any remaining support marks can be sanded off if so desired.
 
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Extra information on SLA Printing can be found [https://formlabs.com/blog/ultimate-guide-to-stereolithography-sla-3d-printing/ here].
 
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==== <span id="FDM Printing Anchor">FDM Printing</span> ====
 
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Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) printers use a thermoplastic filament, which is heated to its melting point, then extruded to create layers which then build an object. There are many different types of FDM printers. Some use a modeling material and a support material, some just use a modeling material which when creating support will use a different style of layering that allows the filament to break off easily, some are able to use multiple filaments at once allowing for multicolored objects to be created. [[File:Filament_Spool.jpg|250px|thumb|right|Example of a filament spool for a FDM printer.]]
 
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Both Stratasys printers (Dimension and F370) use soluble support filament (the support filament dissolves in a heated sodium hydroxide bath), the Prusa printers use only a model material, and the Markforge printer only uses model material as well (however it will layer another filament for extra support).
 
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The filament for these printers comes in spools (basically thin plastic ropes that are wound up). The filament is fed through an extruder head, heated to the desired temperature, then extruded (similar to what happens with a hot glue gun).
 
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FDM printers can work with various materials, in the Prototype Lab we mainly stick to ABS which is used by the Stratasys machines and PLA which is used by the Prusas. The Markforge uses a material called Onyx (nylon and plastic mix) and will layer in another filament such as Carbon Fiber, Kevlar, etc.
 
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==General Welding Knowledge==
 
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Welding is the process of jointing metals. The laser cutter follows a predetermined pattern to engrave or cut the material. Laser cutting is a great way to get a professional-looking surface finish.  
 
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* Can be used for many different materials ranging between wood, glass, rock, plastics, and even engraving Hydroflasks. At this time, the laser cutter in the Prototype Lab is not set up for metal etching.
 
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* Works best on flat surfaces or cylinders with constant diameters.  
 
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There are a couple common steps that must be done correctly when using the laser cutter:
 
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* Always make sure that the lens and cone are clean before starting a print.
 
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* Correctly focus the laser above the material, using the correct focusing tool for the lens type.
 
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* Choose the correct material profile for the material you are using.  
 
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* Clean the bed of the laser cutter when you are finished.
 
  
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== Canvas Certification ==
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Complete the <strong>{{PAGENAME}} Certification Quiz Module</strong> at the link below to gain access to the {{PAGENAME}}. The Maker Hub Canvas course pertains to all facilities and equipment contained in the Maker Hub; simply complete the quizzes for the facilities/equipment you wish to use in the Maker Hub. Please email <span style="color:blue">makerhub@georgefox.edu</span> if you have any questions.
  
 +
[https://georgefox.instructure.com/enroll/G7CTPX Maker Hub Canvas Course]
 +
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== Foxtale Certification ==
 
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Before working with any of the equipment in the prototype lab you will need to take the [https://foxtale.georgefox.edu/moodle/course/view.php?id=31319 general lab quiz] as well as the specific quiz for each machine you are trying to use. The enrollment code for all of the quizzes is MakerHub.
 
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[[File:Shade.png|thumb|448x448px]]
 
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The welding shop consists of a 280 sq. ft room.  It contains a Welding Table, MIG Welder, TIG Welder, Spot Welder, Plasma Cutter, Blasting Cabinet as well as a Fume Boom for ventilation.  There is a first aid kit located on the east wall. 
 
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=Safety Rules=
 
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These are the safety rules for the Welding Shop:
 
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·        Safety glasses must be worn at all times.
 
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·        No horseplay in the shop.
 
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·        Don’t do anything distracting to yourself or others while operating machinery.
 
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·        Do not wear any loose clothing, jewelry, or landyards.
 
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·        No open toed shoes.
 
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·        Hair will not extend bellow the collar.
 
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·        Gloves and helmet must be worn when welding.
 
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·        Food or drink is not allowed in the Welding Lab.
 
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·        Do not attempt to operate equipment that you have not been certified on by GFU engineering personnel.
 
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·        Do not argue with volunteers or shop staff. Contact Justin Johnson if you have issues that need to be resolved.
 
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·        Do not operate equipment without a shop supervisor or trained volunteer in the shop with you. Never operate equipment alone in the shop.
 
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·        Reset the space. Make the area you are working in ready for the next person using the dust broom.
 
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·        If you see a safety violation inform the person immediately and encourage them to comply with the policies.
 
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·        Don’t do anything that would require an additional rule to be added to this list.
 
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=Equipment=
 
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[[Is equipment::True]]
 
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[[Is located in facility::Welding Shop]]
 
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==[[3 commandments]]==
 
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  | is facility = True
 
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  |Has ace=Shane Case; scase16@georgefox.edu
 
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Latest revision as of 23:06, 23 October 2023

Welding Shop Logo.png
The Welding Shop

The Welding Lab has multiple welders including a TIG, MIG and Plasma cutter. The welding shop consists of a 280 sq. ft room. It contains a Welding Table, MIG Welder, TIG Welder, Spot Welder, Plasma Cutter, Blasting Cabinet as well as a Fume Boom for ventilation. There is a first aid kit located on the east wall. One of the first things you should do when walking into the lab is turn on the fume extractor and light switch. When you leave the space make sure to turn off all the machines, close all gas valves and reset the space.

The current Aces of the Welding Shop are Wyatt Bertis (wbertis22@georgefox.edu).

Schedule

The welding shop is open by appointment only. Please email Makerhub@georgefox.edu for access.

Equipment Overview

NameCompanyModelCurrent Ace ⠉
Blast CabinetSkat BlastSC-40Levi Gibson
BuffersBaldor332BNeeded
MIG WelderMiller ElectricMillermatic 210Wyatt Bertis
Pedestal GrinderBaldor332BLevi Gibson
Plasma CutterMillerSpectrum 875Levi Gibson
Spot WelderMillerLMSW-52Levi Gibson
TIG WelderMillerSyncrowave 250DXWyatt Bertis

Equipment by Icon

Mig welder icon.png

MIG Welder

TIG welder.png

TIG Welder

Pedestal grinderIcon.png

Pedestal Grinder

Plasma cutter.png

Plasma Cutter

Spot welderIcon.png

Spot Welder

Blast Cabinet.png

Blast Cabinet

Buffers 3.png

Buffers


3 commandments

1. Safety First

Safety First is the rule we hold highest of the three. This rule applies to both the safety of you as well as others.

Keeping yourself safe in the Welding Lab is very important, as there are possibilities for accidents if you don't follow the safety guidelines. The following rules must be followed at all times.

  • Safety glasses must be worn at all times.
  • A face shield is required when operating the pedestal grinder.
  • When producing sparks pay attention to their direction.
  • Never stand on or kink any of the equipment leads.
  • No horseplay in the shop.
  • Don’t do anything distracting to yourself or others while operating equipment.
  • Do not wear any loose clothing, jewelry, or lanyards.
  • No open toed shoes.
  • Hair will not extend bellow the collar.
  • Gloves and helmet must be worn when welding is in progress.
  • No bare exposed skin when welding or cutting. Leather welding jacket is to be worn if welding or cutting.
  • Food or drink is not allowed in the Welding Lab.
  • Do not attempt to operate equipment that you have not been certified on by GFU engineering personnel.
  • Do not argue with volunteers or shop staff. Contact Justin Johnson if you have issues that need to be resolved.
  • Do not operate welding equipment without a buddy present. Never operate equipment alone in the shop.
  • Reset the space. A clean space is a safer space.
  • If you see a safety violation inform the person immediately and encourage them to comply with the policies.
  • Don’t do anything that would require an additional rule to be added to this list.

2. Reset the Space

The Welding Lab has a specific organization to it. Put whatever you use back where it belongs. There is a place for everything and everything has a place. This rule applies to everything in the space. If you use a tool, put it back. If you use a pen, put it back. Do not leave your projects in the Welding Lab unless you have made prior arrangements. Throw away your trash and recycling.

Now, we understand that sometimes you need to leave projects out. Maybe you are in the middle of a large project and you need something left overnight. In cases like this, it is okay, but you NEED to make prior arrangements with Nick or Justin.

Please put back the equipment the way you found it. Make sure the welding gas is SHUT OFF. The welding cables should be neatly wrapped back onto the welders after they have been allowed to cool. Never step on or kink the welding cables and lines.

Always put any unused materials back on the storage shelf, and throw away unusable scrap.

Sweep the floor and welding table when done.

Make sure to shut off the lights and room ventilation before leaving.

Always leave the space better than you found it.

3. Be Professional

This commandment has two sides to it. It covers the idea of acting like professional (which Webster’s defines as “exhibiting a courteous, conscientious, and generally businesslike manner in the workplace”). The term also describes the standards of education and training that prepare members of the profession with the particular knowledge and skills necessary to perform their specific role within that profession. Hopefully, you are learning both of these as part of your education at George Fox University. In the Welding Lab we expect you to develop as a courteous, conscientious, and skilled craftsman, understanding the tools and equipment in the Maker Hub and how to use them effectively.

Being a professional has some obvious ramifications in terms of behavior. First, be Christlike. Think of others better than yourselves. Share. If you have been welding for a prolonged time and someone else is waiting for the machine, let them use the machine for a while. This is being a professional.

If you are learning to weld, and you can't get something to work the way you want - ASK SOMEONE! Learn! Become a professional. Learn the craft. This is an educational space. You might think it will be quick and you can just get it done “your” way and not learn how to do it correctly. Be a Professional and learn the proper way, and then be available to teach others.

One very important, and likely difficult part of being a professional is to correct others when they are not being professional. It is your responsibility to speak up when you see somebody doing something inappropriate. If you see somebody doing something unsafe, not resetting the space, or being unprofessional, the professional thing to do is to remind them of the three commandments and ask them politely to correct their action. This is OUR space, not any individual's. As a group, we expect everyone in the space to keep the space safe, clean, and operable for everyone. 

If someone acts disgracefully unprofessional to you in the Welding Lab, you are welcome to bring the issue to Justin or Nick's attention.

General Welding 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.

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

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.

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

  • If you experience a fire alarm while working in the Welding Lab turn off the welder power/exhaust fan if you safely can and proceed to the nearest safe exit.
  • Make sure the materials have no coatings. Welding of some coatings like cadmium plating or galvanized metal can produce toxic fumes that could be fatal.
  • Argon acts as an asphyxiant and will displace oxygen. Do not work in a confined space with argon do to the possibility of a low oxygen condition.
  • When setting gas pressure for any of the welders make sure you follow the recommendations listed.
  • Materials should be properly prepped and clean for best results.
  • Make sure the process you are using is correct for your material type.
  • Double check the weld settings and use a piece of scrap to practice before welding on your project.
  • Only weld steel and aluminum. Do not attempt to weld unknown materials.

Here are a couple things to keep in mind:

  • Material will be very hot after welding so always think before touching.
  • Make sure the welder is properly grounded before attempting to weld.
  • Never weld in wet clothes or around water.
  • Never try to weld any type of tank that has ever held flammable liquids. This is very dangerous and can explode!
  • Always check your welding hood settings prior to welding. (start with a darker setting and work your way down.
  • Welding takes lots of practice so don't be afraid to ask for help.

General Bead Blasting Knowledge

Bead blasting is the process of using compressed air to propel small glass beads for ablating and cleaning a material surface. Different types of blast media are used in industry including Soda, Walnut shells, Sand and many more material types.

These are a few good steps to having Success with glass beading.

  • Make sure the material is free from heavy grease and dirt.
  • The material needs to physically fit into the blast cabinet.

Here are a couple things to keep in mind:

  • Never point the nozzle at the gloves or window.
  • Make sure the power switch is turned on before use.
  • Always wait 5 minutes after use before opening the cabinet door. This gives some time for the dust to settle.
  • Never try to bead blast anything flammable. Blasting can sometimes create sparks.
  • Keep liquids out of the cabinet.
  • Never activate the foot pedal with the cabinet door open.

Canvas Certification

Complete the Welding Shop Certification Quiz Module at the link below to gain access to the Welding Shop. The Maker Hub Canvas course pertains to all facilities and equipment contained in the Maker Hub; simply complete the quizzes for the facilities/equipment you wish to use in the Maker Hub. Please email makerhub@georgefox.edu if you have any questions.

Maker Hub Canvas Course

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