Workshop Induction

This was an in-depth induction showing us how to use and work the machines safely.

The Workshop

Cutting Machines

This was a portable jigsaw machine.
It works in a similar way to a sewing machine. It has one small strip of blade that is attached to the 'arm'. The 'arm', when turned on, bounces up and down EXTREMELY fast which allows you to cut through sheet materials. (wood, plastic, etc.)
There is also an adjustable 'foot' that is situated around the blade (like a foot of a sewing machine sits around the needle) this basically gives you more control and safety with your material.
This piece of equipment is brilliant for difficult and unusual shapes like curves.

Band Saw. This is one continuous band/loop of blade that rotates downwards (this direction is very important as it keeps your material from flying out of control. It pushed your material into the 'bed' of the machine). This is mainly used for straight cuts but you can create small/shallow curves.

This is another band saw which works the same way as the one above but this is used only for straight cuts.
It has an adjustable guard and 'fence' this is a movable guide/ruler so you can create perfect straight lines.

Sanders
These are usually used to make finishing touches.
This one is used to sand difficult shapes like rings, loops, curves etc... you can also change the sander for different thickness's.

 This type of sander works with a band that rotates.

This sander works with a spinning disk. The closer you are to the centre of the disk the slower it is therefore it isn't so harsh on your material. Whereas the further out to the edge the faster the disk is spinning and the faster your piece will be sanded.

Hand Tools
There are so many different hand tools that you can use! We were shown a few different types of drills and screwdrivers.

The induction was very helpful, we had a chance to try out all of the machines so we could get used to them. I am very confident to use these tools now and I can not wait to start working with them. All of the machines have safety guards and you are not allowed near a working machine until you have:
. Goggles on
. Hair tied back
. Large/dangling jewellery off
. Safe or sturdy footwear
. No coats or baggy clothing
Because of this the workshop is a safe environment to be in and the tech staff are extremely helpful and great fun to work with.