Metalshop Meetup 2023-6-1

Metalshop Meetup May 2nd 2023

There is more that needs to be done in the metalshop than what the lead and subleads currently have bandwidth to handle in a timely manner. The main focus was to prioritize what tasks can be done first as well as coordinate with other metalshop users to see if and how they would like to help. In addition, the lead wanted to hear if there were other issues that needed to be addressed or if there were things we needed to improve. The end result of this meeting now means multiple streams of effort going to put the done stamps on these projects!

Will not scrap out the 4x6 frames off the end of the building since the cost of replacing those materials would be more than a couple hundred dollars but may put a taking offers form on the biggest frame
The black metal storage rack will eventually find a home once the heavy steel beams find a new home
Need to coordinate with Facilities about where to store the casters that seem to be multiplying in numbers
Need to go through the sheetmetal in the hot shop and recycle any scrap that isn’t bigger than a 6in by 6in square (this may mean taking some time with the angle grinders to reduce big sheets to something useable and manageable

Chris Wirgler is leading up a team to rewire the machine to get it working on existing wiring
We may not need to buy a 3 phase inverter to get it running, but we’ll still need to pick up a plug
We would like to move the big green over to the cubby area once we verify that the oven is working correctly

Larry Meeks is heading up getting that machine up and running
Would like to build a scissor jack style platform to make it easier to use the machine
Will need to make a new orifice to meet the capacity of our current air system
Will also need to run a 3/4in ID air hose over to that box (most likely run by Rustin)
New setup should be able to sandblast an entire intake manifold in under 15 minutes (currently takes 2hrs)
Will need to pour a 10x10 concrete pad for the dust filtration system that goes with the sandblaster which will also need to have a screen per zoning
Currently have approval from Facilities to pour the concrete pad, but will coordinate with the board before moving further due to it being a change to the outside of the building

Jimmy Tennant is leading up the efforts on
It is up and running
We do not need to add water to the table during use, but the exhaust system needs to be running
Next step: focus on torch height control working fully
Future step: add downdraft exhaust system

Would like to see more project based classes come up like Doug's lift lid and pencil box classes where the basics of tools are taught and the projects are started, but then the rest of the project is up to the student to finish
- Projects like the fabled windchime class would fit this need and a price of close to $75 might not be off putting considering the price of big tuned windchimes
- The lead is open to suggestions for more classes as well as other people teaching classes and is willing to help with classes if requested