This section covers the essential hand tools, power tools, and machine tools used in design and technology for working with resistant materials. Understanding the properties, safe use, and maintenance of these tools is crucial for producing accurate and safe projects.
Hand Tools
Hand tools are simple tools powered by human effort. They are often used for tasks requiring precision and control.
Common Hand Tools
Hand Saws: Used for cutting materials. Different types include hacksaws (for metal), hand saws (for wood), and coping saws (for curves).
Screwdrivers: Used for tightening and loosening screws. Various types (Phillips, slotted, etc.) are available.
Pliers: Used for gripping, bending, and cutting wires or other materials. Different types include regular pliers, long-nose pliers, and wire cutters.
Files: Used for shaping and smoothing materials. Different shapes (flat, round, half-round) are used for different purposes.
Measuring Tools: Including rulers, calipers, and protractors, essential for accurate measurements.
Chisels: Used for shaping and removing small amounts of material.
Hammer: Used for driving nails or other fasteners.
Safe Use of Hand Tools
Always wear safety glasses.
Ensure the tool is in good condition and the handle is securely fixed.
Use the correct tool for the job.
Maintain a firm grip on the tool.
Cut away from your body.
Keep hands and fingers away from the cutting edge.
Store tools safely when not in use.
Power Tools
Power tools are electrically or pneumatically powered tools that provide greater speed and efficiency than hand tools.
Common Power Tools
Tool
Uses
Safety Precautions
Drills:
Creating holes in materials.
Wear safety glasses, secure the workpiece, use the correct drill bit for the material, and avoid over-tightening.
Sander:
Smoothing surfaces and removing material.
Wear a dust mask, use the correct grit sandpaper, and avoid applying excessive pressure.
Jigsaws:
Cutting curved shapes in materials.
Wear safety glasses, secure the workpiece, and use the correct blade for the material.
Circular Saws:
Making straight cuts in materials.
Wear safety glasses and hearing protection, secure the workpiece, and use the correct blade for the material.
Grinders:
Removing material and shaping metal.
Wear safety glasses, hearing protection, and a face shield, secure the workpiece, and use the correct grinding wheel.
Safe Use of Power Tools
Always read and understand the tool's instruction manual.
Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, hearing protection, and a dust mask.
Ensure the workpiece is securely clamped.
Use the correct tool and blade for the job.
Keep hands away from moving parts.
Ensure the tool is properly grounded.
Regularly inspect the tool for damage.
Machine Tools
Machine tools are powered machines that use cutting tools to remove material from a workpiece. They are used for precise and repetitive operations.
Common Machine Tools
Tool
Uses
Safety Precautions
Lathe:
Turning and shaping cylindrical workpieces.
Wear safety glasses, secure the workpiece, and avoid loose clothing or jewelry.
Milling Machine:
Removing material to create complex shapes.
Wear safety glasses, secure the workpiece, and use appropriate cutting speeds and feeds.
Planer:
Flattening and reducing the thickness of wood.
Wear safety glasses, secure the workpiece, and ensure the fence is properly adjusted.
Safe Use of Machine Tools
Only operate machine tools under the supervision of a qualified instructor.
Wear appropriate PPE, including safety glasses and hearing protection.
Ensure the workpiece is securely clamped.
Use the correct cutting tools and speeds.
Keep hands away from moving parts.
Never attempt to adjust or repair machine tools yourself.
Ensure the machine is properly guarded.
Suggested diagram: A collection of hand tools, power tools, and machine tools arranged for illustrative purposes.