21 Grinding and Smoothing Equipment

The shoe machine and Trautman router may be used to round/bevel corners, smooth edges and remove surface scratches in plastic and metal.

When using these tools, aim to create smooth edges without indents, burrs, or sharp edges. Bevel the edges so that the surface is smooth from the inside to the outside. Round the corners evenly.

PPE

• Use dust mask
• Use ear protection
• Use safety glasses
• Close toe shoes should be worn in all lab areas.
• Remove all loose outer clothing and confine long hair

Environmental/Ventilation

• Turn on the ventilation system (switch is located by the main lab door).
• Position vacuum hood to capture dust when using Trautman router machines.
• Do not wear gloves when operating grinders, sanders or buffers.

General Technique Tips

• Do not stop the rotation of the wheel or any rotating or moving machinery parts by hand.
• Never reach into the working area prior to the spindle coming to a complete stop.
• Do not leave a grinding wheel in motion, ensure it is off and stopped after use.
• Give the work your undivided attention.
• When cutting/smoothing/buffing edges
  • Keep the material in constant motion always removing it from the wheel with upward slanting strokes blending the buff marks. Try to avoid the wheel from catching the edge of your material.
  • For soft materials (foams), grasp material firmly with dominant hand and apply light pressure to the back side of the material with your non-dominant hand. You may allow the material to be pulled in the same direction of the wheel or pull it toward yourself.
  • For hard materials (plastic and metal), grasp the material with both hands. Position the material at the appropriate angle so that the wheel shape matches the edge that you want to create. Pull the material toward you to avoid melting the plastic.
  • Always try to use the entire wheel, avoid using the same spot on the wheel

If something seems/sounds wrong

• Stop the machine immediately if odd noise or excessive vibration occurs.
• Disconnect the equipment from the power source and follow lock out/tag out procedures and manufacturer’s instructions if making repairs or servicing. Lockout/tag out procedures require
  that only trained and authorized individuals may repair and modify the equipment