48 Hour Classes
INSTRUCTOR: Bill Robertson, Artisan
COURSE: Metal Lathe Work
PROJECT: Turned Brass Bed (This class is FULL)
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
This is a lathe class with lots of parts! The emphasis will be on setting up the machine to turn lots of matching brass parts quickly. The class will involve “turning by the numbers,” a term used to describe a method where you figure out the sizes to a thousandth of an inch and preset indicators. Then for each part, you return to these same numbers; therefore producing duplicate parts.
The first challenge will be holding the brass stock in the lathe in an exact and repeatable position. After accurately drilling it will be held internally in expanding and modified collets. Multiple cutting tools, form tools, and indicators will allow students to produce identical pieces. In some cases, over two dozen of the same part will be needed. To save class time some of the materials may be partially machined. The curved sections of the turning will be created with gravers or, if applicable, a radius attachment. Students will also face the challenges of drilling holes through small round balls and if that is not tricky enough, cross holes at a 90° angle will also have to drilled. The instructor has been working on some interesting jigs and holding fixtures to solve these problems. The side rails will be made to come apart just as the originals. The tubes and rods will have to be cut to length, bent, and polished. Special ways to keep the many parts in order will be covered. Final assembly will be done in a way to keep the frame straight and square.
One of the best features is this type of bed can made within a range, to whatever size is needed. This would look perfect in one of Pat and Noel Thomas’ houses and could be sized to fit even a small room. Also, if advanced students can work really fast, they may be able to make a pair fit for a children’s room.
TIME: 48 hours. Completion is likely. However, students with less experience may need to work overtime.
POWER TOOLS: lathe, drill press, flex shaft
SKILL LEVEL: Intermediate and advanced. It would be helpful if students have had a lathe class from this instructor in the past. However, new students or students questioning their ability are invited to talk with the instructor prior to making class selections. The most important part to understand about determining ability needed for this class would be having a good mechanical aptitude and some understanding of how to set up a lathe.
MATERIALS FEE: $135 to be collected at school