How to use the Iron Worker at Techshop

The metal worker is a great machine to use for metal fabrication and for making bends on schedule 40 piping or standard 11 to 16 gauge tubing with the hydraulic bender.  The metal worker has 3 main components; the punch, shear (angle & flat), and notcher.  It is hydraulically operated machine and can cut through thick sizes of metal.  Ask Techshop staff for specifics for each component. 

To start on the Metal worker, make sure it is plugged in and then push the green start button to start the hydraulics.  You are now ready to go.  To actuate the machine make sure that your hands are completely free and then use the foot pedal to actuate it.


*Note!!!
This machine is very powerful (55tons).  Using correct procedures and adhering to safety precautions is extremely important.

Step 1: Using the punch

The punch can be used with metal up to 5/8" thick and there is a whole set of round and square size die's that can be changed out.  Ask the Techshop staff to install the one correct for your project.  Once the correct die is installed, utilize the wrench for the machine and lower the safety guard down onto your material.  The guard should be lowered tight enough that your material cannot be lifted at all, but it should still be able to slide somewhat freely.  You can use a center punch to mark where you need the hole and then slowly lower the die on the metal worker to line up with your mark and then continue to punch all the way through.