Overview

A fitter surveys her blueprints. After determining the next part’s location, she takes her layout tools and marks a line where the part should be placed on the assembly. She finds the correct pre-cut part and tests how well it fits between the parts already in place. It doesn’t fit. It is too long to slide into the space. She marks the correct length on the part by comparing it to the space. It’s a fairly small aluminum part so she takes it to the band saw and trims it to the correct length. After that, she takes it to the belt sander to touch up the saw cut edge. She returns to the assembly, and once again tests the fit of the part. Fits like a glove.

More often than not, the successful completion of a project relies on the fabricator’s ability to use their tools. Welders should know how to use a wide variety of tools. From simple hand tools like wrenches and pliers, to shop equipment such as drill presses or milling machines, tools are the foundation of the manufacturing industry.

In this chapter you will learn about a variety of tools and tools safety concepts. You will be introduced to many kinds of hand and power tools. You will discover the difference between different grades of shop tools and equipment. You will also be shown some basic fabrication techniques and concepts.

Attributions

1. Chapter opening image: US Navy 051215-N-7130B-027 Hull Maintenance Technician 2nd Class Matthew Stephens uses a vertical band saw to cut a piece of wood in the machine shop aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) by U.S. Navy photo by Photographer’s Mate 3rd Class Aaron Burden in the Public Domain; United States government work