Introduction to Power Tools NCCER Core Curriculum Module: 00104-09

After completing this module you should be able to do the following: OBJECTIVES After completing this module you should be able to do the following: Identify power tools commonly used in the construction trades Use power tools safety Explain how to maintain power tools properly

SAFETY Many of the power tools that we have in the carpentry shop are can hurt you. You should never operate a power tool that you have not been trained to use safely. One of the most important rules concerning power tools is to always disconnect the power source before you replace parts such as bits, belts, blades or discs. Always disconnect power tools prior to performing maintenance. Always make sure that the power switch is in the off position before you plug any tool into an electrical outlet.

SAFETY Some tools are equipped with a trigger lock. When the lock is engaged to tool will continue to run even when you take your finger off of the trigger. NEVER activate the trigger lock on any tool.

Types of Power Tools Electric Tools – Any type of tool that must be plugged into an AC power source such as a wall outlet. These tools are powered by electricity. Ex.: Circular Saws Pneumatic Tools – These tools are powered by air. They must be plugged into an air compressor to be used. When using one of these tool, such as an air wrench, be sure to keep your body stance balanced. Pneumatic tools are typically used when there is no source of electricity. Ex.: Pneumatic Drill or Nail Gun. Click here for a video concerning pneumatic tools Hydraulic Tools – Tools that are powered by fluid pressure. Hand pumps or electric pumps are used to produce the fluid pressure that is needed. Ex.: Jack Hammer, Pipe Benders, Jacks Click here to see a video of hydraulic rescue tools in action

Types of Drills Electric Drills Cordless Drills Hammer Drills Electromagnetic Drills Pneumatic Drills (Air Hammers) Electric Screwdrivers

Parts of the Power Drill

Parts of a Drill Gear selector – controls the speed of the drill. Students should keep the drill in 1st until they get the hang if using a drill Trigger – the harder you pull the trigger the faster the chuck will turn Forward & Reverse Switch – Controls the direction that the chuck spins Chuck – Bits are held in place by the chuck

Click Here to see how to change a drill bit in a cordless drill

Click Here to see how to change a drill bit in an electric drill

Types of Drill Bits

Safety & Maintenance Material to be drilled should be firmly clamped Be sure to hold the drill at a right angle to the material to be drilled. Hold the drill with both hands and apply moderate pressure Reduce pressure when the bit is about to come through the other side of the material To prevent electrical shock only use tools that are double insulated with proper ground fault protection using a GFCI. Always find out what is on the other side of the material that you are drilling through before you drill. Make sure that the drill bit is tightened in the chuck before you use the drill If the drill gets caught in the work release the trigger and reverse the motor until the bit is free. Keep the drill’s air vent clear using a small brush or stick

Electromagnetic Drill An electromagnetic drill is a portable drill press that is mounted on an electromagnetic base. Click here to see a video of an electromagnetic drill in use.

Click here to see a video of a pneumatic drill in action

Pneumatically Powered Nailers (Nail Guns) These tools are very common and they increase jobsite production greatly. The first step when using one of these tools is to read the manufacturers instructions Always wear proper PPE. Ensure that the compressor is set to the proper pressure for the nailer. When using, hold the tip of the nailer firmly against the material and pull the trigger. If there is ever a problem with a pneumatic nailer be sure that you disconnect the air hose before attempting to fix it.

Pneumatic Nailers Staplers Sheathing Decking Roofing Framing Finish Work Constructing Cabinets Sheathing Decking Roofing Installing Insulation Installing Ceiling Tile Installing Paneling

Porta-Power A Porta-Power is a hydraulic tool that consists of a lever operated pump, a length of hydraulic hose and a cylinder. They have a variety of uses and can generate tremendous force This porta-power is being used to straighten the chassis of a car.

Circular Saw Safety

Circular Saw Safety Always wear Safety Glasses Hold the Saw Firmly Always start the saw before making contact with the material Keep the cord clear of the blade to avoid cutting it Check the condition of the blade and be sure it is secure before starting the saw Never use a circular saw that does not have an upper guard because the guard keeps you from touching the blade Be sure the blade guards are in place and working properly Set the blade only deep enough to cut through the stock

Circular Saw Safety Check the stock for nails and any other metals before cutting it Allow the saw to reach maximum speed before starting the cut Keep your hands clear of the blade If the saw binds in a cut, stop immediately and hold it in position until the blade stops then back out of the cut. Stop the saw and lay it on its side after finishing the cut Do not hold the stock in your hands while ripping. Secure the material to saw horses with a nail or clamp Always support the work in such a way that one part will fall away from the blade when the cut is complete.

Circular Saw Overview

Circular Saw Safety

Circular Saw Overview The blade size for a Circular Saw is 7-1/4” Circular Saws are the most commonly used saws in the construction industry There are several types of cuts that can be made with a circular saw Crosscut – cutting across the grain Rip-Cut – Cutting in the direction of the grain Mitering - Cutting across the board at an angle Pocket (Plunge) Cuts - Lowering the blade down into the wood Bevel Cuts - Cuts made with the saw blade set on an angle The blade size for a Circular Saw is 7-1/4”

Circular Saw Overview When you are cutting with a circular saw it is important that you always cut on the correct side of the line that you mark. The reason for this is that the blade is about 1/8” thick. If you cut in the wrong side of the line your board will be short by the thickness of the blade (1/8”).

Saber Saws – There are two types of Saber Saws Reciprocating Saw (Sawzall) Jig Saw or Saber Saw

Jigsaw or Saber Saw A Jigsaw or Saber saw has a fine blade that makes it suitable for doing delicate & intricate work. Different types of blades are available so that the jigsaw can be used for many types of materials & work. Very useful for making straight or curved cuts in wood, metal, plastic, wallboard or other materials. When plugging a Saber Saw in be sure that the switch is in the OFF position.

Reciprocating Saw Sometimes referred to as a Sawzall. Similar to a Saber Saw but more rugged Mostly used in demolition work.

Portable Band Saw Has a one piece blade that runs in one direction around guides at either end of the saw. Mostly used for cutting metal pipe. Especially useful for cutting heavy metal.

Power Miter Saw Power Miter Box Compound Miter Saw

Power Miter Saw Power Miter Box Compound Miter Saw Saw blade pivots horizontally from the rear of the table and locks into position to cut angle from zero to 45 degrees. Similar to a Power Miter Saw with the difference being that the blade can be tilted vertically. Frame and Trim Saws The power miter saw combines a miter box with a circular saw, allowing it to make straight and miter cuts

Frame and Trim Saw Sawbuck combine the features of a radial arm saw and a power compound miter saw.

Abrasive Cut-off Saw Sometimes referred to as a chop saw. Used to make straight of angled cuts through angle iron, flat bar or channel. Especially useful for cutting heavy metal.

Grinders Angle Grinders End Grinder Detail Grinder Used to grind away hard, heavy materials. Smaller grinder that is used to smooth the insides of materials such as pipe. Used to smooth or polish intricate metal work.

Saws Hacksaw – used to cut metal with a replaceable blade. Backsaw(miter saw) – most commonly used with a miter box. The saw has a strong back with very fine teeth. Dovetail saw Compass (keyhole) saw – is used for making rough cuts in drywall, plywood, hardboard, and paneling. Used to cut holes for piping and electrical boxes. Coping Saw – has a thin fine-toothed blade and is ideal for making curved and scroll cuts in moldings and trimwork.

Saws

Planes Block Plane Jack Plane Smoothing Plane Jointer Plane Used to plane small pieces, edges, and joint surfaces when small amounts of wood need to be removed Jack Plane A bench plane used to plane rough work Smoothing Plane Plane small work to a smooth, even surface without moving much material Jointer Plane Used to plane and true long boards such as the edges of doors.

Bench Grinder Usually have two wheels, one is for grinding and the other is for buffing. Great for sharpening & renewing tool edges. The tool rest should be a maximum of 1/8” from the wheel

Clamps Hand-screw clamp Locking C-clamp Spring clamp Quick clamp Holds beveled and tapered pieces together Locking C-clamp Spring clamp Quick clamp Web(strap) clamp Used to secure round, oval, and oddly shaped work. Pipe clamp

Routers Main function is to cut patterns in wood. Types of Cuts Chamfer Cut Bevel Cut

Transits and Levels Builders Level Transit Level

Transits and Levels Line Levels are used to level long spans. Consist of a glass tube mounted in a sleeve that has a hook on either end. Water levels consist of a length of clear plastic tubing. Builders level is a telescope with a spirit level mounted on top. It may be rotated 360 degrees, but cannot be tilted up and down. Used to check grades and elevations and to set up points over long distances. Transit levels are similar to builders levels, but may be tilted up and down 45 degrees. Laser level are used to perform all tasks that a conventional transit level may do.

Introduction to Power Tools The End Introduction to Power Tools NCCER Core Curriculum Module: 00104-09