A metalworking area in a makerspace is designed to empower members to cut, shape, weld, and assemble metal for projects ranging from art and furniture to industrial prototypes. Equipped with specialized tools and safety resources, it allows members to learn valuable skills, collaborate on innovative ideas, and turn raw metal into functional or creative works. This area benefits members by fostering hands-on learning, enhancing technical skills, and providing access to equipment often unavailable to individuals.
- Cut-Off Saw (Chop Saw) (Training Required) – For precise cutting of metal stock and pipe.
- Handheld Grinders – For cutting, grinding, and polishing metal surfaces.
- Die Grinders – For precision grinding and shaping in tight spaces.
- MIG Welders (x2) (Training Required) – For efficient, high-quality welding on a variety of metal types.
- Arc Welders (x2) (Training Required) – For strong, durable welds, especially on thicker metal.
- Spot Welder (Training Required) – For joining sheet metal quickly and efficiently.
- Torches (Training Required) – For cutting, heating, and brazing metal.
¶ Sanding and Grinding Machines
- Belt Sander (Training Required) – For smoothing and shaping metal surfaces.
- Disc Sander (Training Required) – For precise surface finishing and edge smoothing.
- Bench-Top Grinder (Training Required) – For sharpening tools and removing excess material.
- Drill Press (Training Required) – For precise, consistent drilling in metal stock.
- Various Drills and Taps – For creating and threading holes in metal.
- Various Clamps – Essential for holding metal securely during cutting, welding, and shaping.
- Hammers and Mallets – For shaping and adjusting metal components.
- Files and Rasps – For manual shaping and smoothing of metal edges.
- Calipers – For precise measurements of metal components.
- Squares and Angle Gauges – For accurate layout and alignment.
- Marking Tools (Scribes, Punches) – For marking cut lines and drill points.
- Bolts, Nuts, and Washers – A variety of sizes for assembly and fabrication.
- Metal Stock:
- Flat Bar Stock
- Round Bar Stock
- Square Tubing
- Angle Iron
- Sheet Metal
- Scrap Metal – Offcuts and reusable pieces for small projects or prototyping.
- Grinding Discs and Sanding Belts – For use with grinders and sanders.
- Welding Wire and Electrodes – Consumables for MIG and arc welding.
- Cutting Discs – For handheld grinders and chop saws.
- Heat-Resistant Gloves – Essential for handling hot metal and welding.
- Welding Helmets (Required for Welding) – For eye and face protection during welding.
- Face Shields (Required for Grinding) – For protecting against sparks and debris.
- Heat-Resistant Aprons – For body protection while welding or working with hot materials.
- Hearing Protection – For use with noisy machines like grinders and welders.
- Ventilation and Fume Extractors – For safe removal of welding fumes and metal dust.
Machines and tools marked with (Training Required) must be used only after completing a safety training session. This ensures safe operation and prevents damage to equipment or injury to the user.