Machine Tools

• Bridgeport Series 1 (round ram, M-head)
• Delta 28-560
• Mini Lathe (7×16)
• Green Instruments Pantograph engraver

Metrology

• Granite surface plate (36“x36”)
• Height gauge

Other Tools

• Bench grinder
• Drill bit sharpener

Metal Lathe

General

1. Check chuck key removal before starting
2. Secure workpiece properly
3. Remove chips with brush or vacuum only
4. Never leave chuck key in chuck

Before Use:

1. Oil all ways and sliding surfaces
2. Verify smooth carriage movement
3. Ensure chuck key is not in chuck

After Use:

1. Wipe down all surfaces
2. Remove all chips
3. Clean and store any tools used
   • Especially the chuck key.

Lathe Maintenance

• Weekly:

1. Clean and inspect chuck jaws
2. Check belt condition
3. Clean and oil change gears

• Monthly:

1. Inspect electrical cables
2. Clean and adjust gibs if needed
3. Check tailstock alignment
4. Level machine

Milling Machine

General

IMPORTANT: Fill spindle oil cup before each use - machine must not be run without proper lubrication

1. Always use proper workholding (vise, clamps, or fixtures)
2. Check that workpiece and vise are securely mounted
3. Remove chuck key before starting machine
4. Use appropriate speeds and feeds for material
5. Never adjust workpiece while machine is running
6. Keep hands away from rotating cutters
7. Use climb milling only when appropriate
8. Check cutter rotation direction before starting cut
9. Clean table surface and ways after use
10. Never leave tools on machine table
11. Use brush or vacuum to remove chips, never compressed air
12. Keep area around machine clear of obstacles
13. Monitor for excess vibration or unusual sounds

Before Use:

CRITICAL: Fill spindle oil cup - machine must not be run without proper lubrication

1. Oil all ways and leadscrews
2. Check drawbar tightness
3. Verify smooth table movement in all axes

After Use:

1. Wipe down all surfaces
2. Clean table and T-slots
3. Remove all chips
4. Clean and store any tools used

Mill Maintenance

• Weekly:

1. Check belt condition
2. Clean and oil leadscrews

• Monthly:

1. Inspect electrical cables
2. Check gibs and adjust if needed
3. Verify head tram
4. Level Machine

Bandsaw

General

1. Ensure the work area is clean and free of debris
2. Select the appropriate blade for your material (tooth pitch, blade material)
3. Adjust the blade speed to match the material (lower speeds for harder materials)
4. Secure the material firmly in the vise, ensuring it's perpendicular to the blade
5. Position the blade guide as close to the workpiece as possible
6. Use push sticks or handling tools when working with small pieces
7. Support long pieces with roller stands or other appropriate supports
8. Start the machine and allow it to reach full speed before beginning the cut
9. Allow the machine to complete the cut without forcing or rushing
10. In case of binding or jamming, stop the machine immediately
11. Replace blades when dull or damaged
12. Store blades properly when not in use

Before use

1. Check the blade for cracks, missing teeth, or damage
2. Ensure blade tension is proper according to manufacturer specifications
3. Verify all guards are in place and functioning
4. Check that the blade guides and support bearings are properly adjusted

After Use

1. Clean the machine after each use
2. Remove chips and debris from the blade and work area

Maintenance

• Weekly

1. Lubricate moving parts according to manufacturer recommendations
2. Verify blade tension

• Monthly

1. Check and adjust blade tracking
2. Inspect and replace worn blade guides
3. Check drive belt for condition

Metrology Equipment

Handling and Storage

1. Handle all measuring instruments with care to prevent damage
2. Store instruments in protective cases when not in use
3. Maintain a clean environment for storage
4. Keep instruments away from moisture, dust, and extreme temperatures

Usage

1. Select the appropriate instrument for the measurement task
2. Clean measuring surfaces before and after use
3. Follow manufacturer's operating instructions
4. Apply consistent measuring force when using contact instruments
5. Allow temperature stabilization between instrument and part
6. Take multiple measurements for verification
7. Report inaccurate or out-of-calibration equipment to Shop Captain.

Maintenance

1. Perform regular visual inspections for damage or wear
2. Clean instruments according to manufacturer recommendations
3. Lubricate moving parts as specified
4. Check batteries and power supplies regularly
5. Verify zero settings before measurements
6. Perform periodic performance checks between calibrations