Machine tools

Question 1

Name the 2 types of machine drills

Answer 1

Bench drill
Pillar drill

Question 2

Describe the bench drill

Answer 2

The bench drill is used for drilling holes through materials including a range of woods, plastics and metals. It is normally bolted to a bench so that it cannot be pushed over and that larger pieces of material can be drilled safely.

Question 3

Describe the pillar drill

Answer 3

This can do exactly the same work as the bench drill but because of its larger size it is capable of being used to drill larger pieces of materials and produce larger holes

Question 4

Describe the belt sander

Answer 4

This machine is used to remove large quantities of material quickly. It is often used to shape material when sawing or cutting may lead to inaccuracies.

Question 5

Describe a mortiser

Answer 5

A mortising machine is a special type of machine that has a special drill bit which can bore out square holes.

Question 6

Why are mortisers used

Answer 6

Mortising machinery is designed specifically to make mortises for mortise and tenon joints and they are much more quick and easy to use than making the joint with a mallet and chisel.

Question 7

Describe the scroll saw

Answer 7

The scroll saw is a general workshop machine. It is used to cut and shape light materials such as perspex, MDF and plywood.

Question 8

Describe how a lathe is used

Answer 8

The wood to be turned, is held securely between the centres. A drive centre is used at the headstock side of the lathe (left). This rotates, powered by the motor. A dead centre or a live centre (preferred), is used at the tailstock side (right). Grease is applied to the ‘point’ of the dead centre and this allows the wood to rotate, as a dead centre does not rotate itself. A live centre revolves on its own set of bearings and does not require grease.

All wood turning requires training by an instructor, as lathes can be extremely dangerous if misused.

Question 9

What is powder coating?

Answer 9

This type of coating, offers surface protection combined with a decorative appeal, due to the vast range of colours that are available. Further to this, in many cases a dry powder coating improves the functionality of the product. Powder coating is achieved through use of a fluidiser.