The process of manufacturing a product begins with the process of manufacturing the tool used to make that product. It is a long journey that every product undertakes before it is ready to be sold at a store. Like humans these products also have to undergo gestation period and this gestation period is the time when the tools required for the manufacturing of the product is made. So in simple words the time used in the process of tool making can be considered as the gestation period for any product. Some of the very common tools used in manufacturing are metal forming roller, milling cutters, lathe bits, form tools, etc.
Mastering the art of Tool Making?
In metalworking trades people who have mastered the art of tool making are considered to be at the top of the ladder as they are quite versatile in making the best use of their mortar skills for creating and making new tools and machines, which can be used for further production of products. Tool makers are a great asset for any manufacturing unit. So here are some important tips to become a skillful tool maker:
Mastering the art of Tool Making?
In metalworking trades people who have mastered the art of tool making are considered to be at the top of the ladder as they are quite versatile in making the best use of their mortar skills for creating and making new tools and machines, which can be used for further production of products. Tool makers are a great asset for any manufacturing unit. So here are some important tips to become a skillful tool maker:
- Working On Basic Math: One of the very essential pre-requisite for every tool maker is to learn the basic concepts of math like addition, subtraction, algebra, trigonometry, etc. as this will be very useful in calculating bolt circles, finding the length, etc. very quickly.
- Learning Computer Drafting: Learning the skill of computer drafting will be very helpful in tool making process as it helps the tool maker in creating and effectively interpreting the mechanical drawing which makes the process of making the tools quite easy and hassle-free.
- Studying Machine Tool Technology: It is advised to join a good institute or school for earning a bachelor’s degree in machine tool technology as this will provide you with the theoretical knowledge which is required for learning the process of tool making. You must ensure that the prospective institute where you want to study offers good computer numerically controlled (CNC) programming courses.
- Joining Apprenticeship Program: While studying the tool technology in an institute you can always join an Apprenticeship program where you can learn practical aspect of the process of making tools. This is the time when you can apply all your theoretical knowledge. Generally, in the beginning very simple tasks are given like drilling, sweeping, debarring, etc. but with time you can learn about lathe, mill & surface grinder, etc.
- Gain Experience after Entering a Job in Tool Making: Once you are done with your course and Apprenticeship you can find a suitable job where you can have good chance of gaining experience from veteran tool makers. During the initial years do not find a job with the purpose of earning money but try to gain as much as experiences as possible so accordingly find the job.
- Utilize The Online Discussion Forums: When we have the platform then why not use it for our betterment. You must be very active on online discussion forums and try to talk with other tool makers, share your idea and learn from the experience of other.
- Read Metal Working Trade Publications: A 3 – 4-year bachelor course cannot provide you with all the knowledge about tool making. Rather it only imparts basic knowledge that is required to peruse any career. So in order to be in touch with recent development and learning new things you must read metal working trade publications in your free time as it will help to brush up your knowledge.
