Although it is one of the easiest materials to machine, safety remains a top priority for people who work in aluminum machining workshops. Traditional aluminum machining, which includes sawing, boring, tapping, turning, and custom aluminum milling, involves the use of powerful machinery. Unless properly operated, the risk of damage or injury is very real.
When machining aluminum, the feeds and speeds are extremely fast, which increases the potential of something going wrong. In comparison, a custom CNC machine does not pose as much risk since there is very little human involvement other than to enter the appropriate code. In other words, a custom CNC machine runs automatically based on the code it was provided. Even so, safety is critical since this too is a powerful type of machinery.
- Preventing an Explosion – At no time should aluminum be machined around cutting torches, open flames, faulty electrical equipment, welding equipment, matches or lighters, static electrical charges, or lit cigarettes. When aluminum is sanded, sawed, cut, ground, polished, or scratch brushed, extremely fine particles are generated known as “dust,” “powder,” or “fines.” Some of these particles have the potential of causing an explosion if a dust cloud comes too close to any of the mentioned risks.
- Training – No person should ever run the machine or a specific function of the machine unless thoroughly trained.
- Teams – Due to the potential dangers of machining aluminum, a minimum of two people should be in the workshop at any given time.
- Appropriate Protection – Machining involves the use of molten aluminum, which usually reaches temperatures between 1,300 and 1,450 degrees Fahrenheit. To prevent severe burns by coming into contact with the material, as well as other operation tasks, workshop employees must don appropriate protective gear, including closed-toe shoes, gloves, and safety goggles or glasses.
- Loose Items – Because machines have moving parts, no operator should wear loose or dangling jewelry, ID badge, or clothing. In addition, long hair should always be pulled back and securely fastened in place.
- Safety Guards and Adjustments – Before machining aluminum with fast feeds and speeds, safety guards must be in the proper position. In addition, no adjustments should ever be made while the machine is in operation.
For almost 45 years, our team at NexGen Machine Company has provided customers with a variety of machined parts of the highest quality possible. To learn more about our services, please visit our website. In addition, you can call us to speak with a company representative.