Machine Shop Classes

This page is for the machine shop classes for the space. Currently basic lathe classes are being taught, but this may expand to include other classes/tools as they become available. (This page is a work in progress, please contribute!)

Resources

Further Reading

Lathe Instruction Manual

MIT Lathe Instruction Videos

Material Sources

HacDC Wiki Page: Suppliers

McMaster-Carr

American Science and Surplus $20 Digital Calipers

Lessons Learned

List of tips gleaned from our own mistakes experiences. Please contribute (with attribution / date).

• The speed settings from the classes are suggestions only. When in doubt, sacrifice a small test piece to fiddle with speeds (both motor speed and hand speed) and find the optimal settings. (Tom C. 10/13/10)
• When boring and turning, it's much easier to stand at the END of the machine (so you're looking down the axis of the part) than to stand "in front" where you'd normally think to. (Tom C. 10/13/10)
• Don't be afraid to use both hands on the dials. They're small, but two hands will give better control and smoother finishes. (Tom C. 10/13/10)

Suggestions

Suggested additions to our tool selection, classes, projects, etc.

Operations to Learn

• Knurling
• Tapered cutting

Tools to Buy

• Knurling Tool

See also Wiki Procurement Page

Class Projects

• DIY Flashlight (VERY advanced, we may need to work up to this)
• Control Knobs (Possibly pair with an electronics class?)
• Aesthetics and Finishes (mini-class) - we make a handful of decorative rings with different tools, they make great gifts!
  • Knurling
  • Straight and angled grooving
  • Polishing
• Threading (may take some time, I (Tom) will need to teach myself first)