Workshop, Atte

Our workshop is divided into 3 areas which are sheet metal and welding, machining and miscellaneous stuff. The border between the last two areas is quite blurry as both areas have some equipment that would also fit in the other area. One of the most important features of this area is the big shelf of tools that houses nearly all of our handheld manual tools. Our “miscellaneous stuff” area also contains our clean room, which is a smaller area that is sometimes used as a classroom but its main function is to house machines that require a cleaner workspace, such as 3D printers, 3D scanners and the computers used to control those machines. This area is where I spend most of my time when I’m at school.

The machining area contains all of the large metalworking machines such as lathes, mills and saws. We currently have three CNC-controlled VMC’s (vertical machining center) and a single CNC-controlled lathe. We also have multiple manual lathes and mills. Most of the equipment used for work setups on these machines is also stored in this area. This equipment consists of different fixtures and tools. The teacher’s room is also located in this area. 

The last area of the workshop is for sheet metal and welding work, and it’s a bit of a mess at the moment since a lot of new machines have been put in and old stuff needs a new location or is going to be thrown out entirely. There are 4 cabinets for welding that have dark spark-proof curtains that protect students from catching on fire and also block some of the dangerously bright light that is produced by welding equipment. Vacuums are also used to draw away the toxic fumes created in the welding process, which is very important for safety especially when welding aluminium. The newest addition to this area is the CNC plasma cutter, which is used for precisely cutting shapes of out sheet metal and thicker plate steel. 

All of the areas have pathways marked in yellow paint that are safe to traverse without special equipment. Outside of these paths, safety boots are required and eye protection is heavily recommended everywhere and required on most machines. Most of the machines have rubber carpeting on the area where the operator usually stands, which is great for preventing back and leg pains when using a machine for extended periods of time. 

Bins for scrap material are placed all around the workshop to make correct disposal of rubbish and material scraps easy and efficient. Generic trash bins are also found in some spots for uncategorized waste. 

The break room, which I consider to be the most important part of our workshop is located next to and is accessed from the “miscellaneous stuff” area. It’s quite a large room that contains couches and chairs for relaxing and spending time during breaks. We also have a fridge and entertainment amenities such as an audio system and television. 

Overall, our workshop is a very nice place and I enjoy working there. Unlike a lot of other workshops in the steel and machining industry, the air inside is clean and the ventilation system makes sure it stays that way. The machinery may be a bit outdated but most things in Porvoo are outdated so that’s no surprise.