Introduction to the Metal Shop

This skills class is a required course that all metal shop participants must take prior to working in the metal shop.  This course will cover the safety equipment of the metal shop, tool safety and maintenance, and basic operation of equipment.  While you will not leave this class a master fabricator, you will have the basic foundations to begin realizing all the possibilities of the metal shop.

This course will include lecture, demonstration, and student participation.  Students will learn to operate the horizontal bandsaw, horizontal/vertical sander, drill press, angle grinder, and MIG welder.  Additionally, we will discuss the difference between the fixturing table and the welding table.

Please wear closed toed leather shoes and cotton clothing that provides full upper and lower body coverage.  No synthetic fabrics (polypropylene, rayon, spandex, etc) are allowed in the metal shop at any time.  Clothing should not have free draw chords or frayed edges.  If you have longer hair, bring something to pull your hair back for safety.

Personal protective equipment - if you have personal leather gloves, safety glasses, or hearing protection bring your own.  The MakerLab also has these community items for you to use.  If you have your own welding hood please bring this so we can ensure that it is set correctly.  Good close vision is important for effective welding and cutting.  Please bring the appropriate impact resistant glasses or other vision devices as necessary.