Manual Machining Boot Camp

Objective:
To provide a fast-paced, hands-on introduction to manual machining with a focus on safety, precision measurement, and basic operation of lathes, mills, and related shop equipment.

Week 1: Safety, Tools & Shop Basics

• Shop orientation and expectations

• PPE, Lockout/Tagout, and general safety protocols

• Tool identification: hand tools, cutting tools, measuring tools

• Intro to shop math and blueprint reading fundamentals

• Overview of manual machines: lathe, mill, drill press, bandsaw

Hands-On:

• Layout and marking techniques

• Deburring, filing, and basic hand tool use

• Shop walk-throughs and tool handling practice

Week 2: Lathe Operations

• Lathe parts and function overview

• Work holding: 3-jaw chuck, collet, centers

• Basic operations: facing, turning, parting, drilling

• Speeds and feeds introduction

• Cutting tool setup and alignment

Hands-On:

• Machine cylindrical parts to size

• Practice turning to shoulder, chamfering, and drilling

• Use micrometers and calipers for inspection

Week 3: Milling Machine Operations

• Mill components and function

• Work holding with vises, parallels, and clamps

• Edge finding and tramming

• Squaring stock, drilling bolt circles, counterbores

• Tool types and cutter selection

Hands-On:

• Machine square blocks to tolerance

• Drill and tap holes to spec

• Align vises and use edge finders

Week 4: Precision & Capstone Project

• Understanding tolerances and surface finish

• Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T) basics

• Layout and plan a basic part from print

• Process control, inspection, and documentation

Hands-On:

• Machine a multi-feature part using lathe and mill

• Measure with micrometers, height gauges, and indicators

• Final project review and presentation

Completion Includes:

• Certificate of Completion

• Exposure to real tools, machines, and inspection methods

• Portfolio-ready project part

• Option for referrals to entry-level shop roles