Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v4 - SHS 3

Lesson Video

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Performance objectives

• Identify and describe the main parts of five woodwork machines.
• Explain the functions and uses of each machine.
• Understand the importance of safety when operating these machines.

Lesson summary

This lesson introduces five essential machines used in modern woodworking. In Ghana, from the local carpenter at Sokoban (Kumasi) or Kokompe (Accra) to large-scale furniture companies, these machines are vital. Understanding how to identify, describe, and select the correct machine for a specific job is a critical skill for any student of Applied Technology. It marks the transition from using basic hand tools to employing technology for greater efficiency, precision, and creativity. This knowledge is not just for examinations; it is the foundation for a potential career in furniture design, construction, or manufacturing.

Lesson notes

This section details the five essential machines. We will explore what they are, their parts, their uses, and how to operate them safely. Machine 1: The Mortising Machine

A mortising machine is a specialized tool used to cut square or rectangular holes, called mortises, in a piece of wood. These holes are a crucial part of the strong and traditional mortise and tenon joint, which is used to join two pieces of wood at a 90-degree angle (e.g., in table legs, door frames, and chairs). Key Parts: Base: The heavy foundation that keeps the machine stable. Column: The vertical support that holds the head of the machine. Head: Contains the motor and the drilling mechanism. Motor: Provides the power to rotate the drill bit. Chuck: A clamp that holds the drill bit and square chisel. Hollow Chisel & Auger Bit: The cutting tool. It's a drill bit (auger) inside a square, hollow chisel. The bit removes the bulk of the wood, and the chisel squares the corners as it's pressed down. Fence: An adjustable guide to position the wood correctly and consistently. Hold-down Clamp: Secures the workpiece firmly to the table, preventing it from lifting during the operation. Operating Handle: A long lever used by the operator to lower the cutting tool into the wood. Operation/Use: To create a mortise for a joint in a bed frame. Mark the location and dimensions of the mortise on the wood. Securely clamp the wood against the fence using the hold-down clamp. Align the chisel with your markings. Turn the machine on. Pull the operating handle down smoothly and firmly to plunge the chisel and bit into the wood. Raise the handle, move the wood slightly, and make overlapping cuts until the full length of the mortise is cleared. Safety Precautions: Always wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from wood chips. Ensure the workpiece is tightly secured with the hold-down clamp before starting. Keep your hands far away from the moving chisel and bit.

Machine 2: The Router Shaping Machine (Router)

A router is an incredibly versatile motor-powered tool used for hollowing out, shaping, and cutting profiles or decorative edges on a piece of wood. It can be handheld or mounted upside-down on a router table. Key Parts: Motor Housing: The main body containing the electric motor. Base: The flat platform that rests on the surface of the wood. Collet and Nut: A special type of chuck that grips the cutting tool, known as a router bit. Depth Adjustment: A mechanism (usually a knob or ring) to control how deep the router bit cuts into the wood. Handles: For gripping and controlling the router. Operation/Use: To create a decorative rounded edge on a tabletop. Select the correct router bit (e.g., a "roundover" bit). Unplug the router and insert the bit into the collet, tightening it securely. Set the cutting depth using the depth adjustment. Clamp the tabletop securely to a workbench. Turn the router on and, holding it firmly, move it smoothly along the edge of the wood. The direction of movement is important to avoid tear-out. Safety Precautions: Wear safety goggles and a dust mask. Routing produces a lot of fine dust. Ensure the router bit is sharp and securely fastened in the collet. Keep both hands on the router handles during operation.

Evaluation guide

• Use an appropriate machine for a specific operation independently
• Group work/Collaborative Learning: Guide learners in mixed ability groups to co -
• operatively and passionately identify the following machines:
• Mortising/Drilling Machine