Dimension and roughness mesurement tools located in Manufacturing Research Lab and other labs are used to measure precise dimensions. Therefore, they have high accuracy and misusage leads the tool to loose its function. Also improper usage of these tools may be hazardous for the user. Although they are safer than any other equipment in the lab, if users follow the rules below will not face any circumstanec that will lead to an accident.
CMM (Coordinate Measurement Machine)
- Since CMMs located at MRL have high accuracy and complicated user interface, untrained lab users must not use them.
- The probes should be changed while the machine is off.
- The probes are very vulnerable, therefore while carrying or changing the probes people should pay extra attention.
- User makes sure that there exists no obstacle on the table and the table is clean before starting the measurement.
- While measuring do not touch the axis or the probe with your body.
- After the measurement table should be cleaned and probes should be taken off.
- Calipers have sharp tips. Users should not use the tips of the calipers other than for measurement.
- Johnson gauges are very accurate and have sharp edges. When carrying and using the gauges people should be careful.
- Micrometers are high accuracy measurement tools and should only be used to measure workpieces.
- Surface roughness touch probes have a needle like geometry. These devices should only be used to measure surface roughness. The touch needles must never be taken off from its cover.
- Nanofocus and dyno digital cameras have precise lenses. When focusing user should pay attention to not to break them.
- All precision measuring tools have their own storage area and cover. People should put the devices back once they finished the measurements.
Precision Measuring Tools
Hand Tools
- Use only tools that are in good condition. If a tool is in poor condition, turn it over to the Responsible Faculty Member or the lab technician.
- Rough, broken or loose tool handles must be replaced before using them.
- Wrenches with sprung or spread jaws should not be used.
- Be sure the jaws of wrenches are adjusted to fit tightly on the nut, bolt or pipe before putting strain on the wrench. Always pull on the wrench if possible.
- Only polymer hammers must be used to strike hardened tools or machine surfaces.
- Worn screwdrivers with rounded or broken points must not be used.
- When using a screwdriver, place the workpiece on a bench or some solid object. Never hold the part in your hand.
- Tools must be used correctly. Do not use screw drivers as pry bars or chisels. Do not use wrenches as hammers.
- Sharp edges of tools with a shield must be protected or covered when they are being carried.
Power Tools
Portable power tools have hazards similar to stationary machine tools. There are additional risks associated with handling the tool. Typical injuries and hazards caused by portable hand tools include burns, cuts, and strains. Other sources of injury include electric shock, particles in the eyes, fires, falls, explosions and falling tools.
- Cords or hoses must not be left lying on the floor where they may be a trip hazard.
- Cords or hoses must not be hanged from nails, bolts or sharp objects.
- Cords and hoses must be kept away from oil, hot surfaces and chemicals.
- Wear protective safety glasses when operating a portable power hand tool.
- Appropriate respirator must be used when the use of a power tool may generate airborne dust, powders, etc.
- Never operate a power tool in the presence of combustible materials or liquids. Sparks from the tool itself, or from contact of the active tool with the work or surrounding area can easily ignite combustibles.
- Tools which generate excessive dust or debris may not be used in the machine shop area.