? for the machinists

[Showdog75]

I've got a Rockwell vertical mill in my limited work space.My problem with it is the messes I make everytime I use it. Seems like I spend more time cleaning up after each use than actually doing a project with it.I've thought about making a inclosure out of plexi glass to contain the shavings just thought I'd ask what the pro's have done to deal with there messes. Problem is my little workshop is in my basement so I've got to figure out a way to contain the shavings so I don't track them in the house. Anyidea's would be appreciated.Thanks

[aametalmaster]

Yup i have the same problem. I have a tarp on like a round shape shower curtain rod to catch the flying chips and they drop straight down to the floor...Bob

[Machinist]

They make some lexan shields that are mounted on a magnet....MSC has then maybe a couple of those in the way the chips are flying,as far as tracking them in the house i got one pair of shoes for the shop and another pair that i put on when i leave....

[kcstott]

A block of steel about 2X3X1 drill and tap some holes in it on the 1" edge then screw a piece of Plexiglas to it that is about 18"X12" the steel acts as a weight and you can then position it on the vise to direct your chips in a more manageable direction.
Other then that Get use to it It's the life of a machinist

[GTA/SPEC]

Its just a part of being a machinist. My wife gets tired of the chips that get drug into the house more than anything.

I have had no success with the idea of a clear shield. Its always in the way.

I have a Bridgeport with an Acu-rite MillPWR CNC control. Since its an open table, I keep a shop vac close with a foot switch attached to turn it on. I will make a cut and then use the vac, make a cut and use the vac, etc. Or in cycle, I just prop up the vac nozzle and let it work. The vac provides some air flow and great chip removal.

[popspipes]

I've got a Rockwell vertical mill in my limited work space.My problem with it is the messes I make everytime I use it. Seems like I spend more time cleaning up after each use than actually doing a project with it.I've thought about making a inclosure out of plexi glass to contain the shavings just thought I'd ask what the pro's have done to deal with there messes. Problem is my little workshop is in my basement so I've got to figure out a way to contain the shavings so I don't track them in the house. Anyidea's would be appreciated.Thanks

I use a shop vac with the large hose, clean the bed and floor area around the machine pretty much after every job, you get used to it after awhile, its a necessary thing. Your wife will make you very aware of the shavings that do get in the house!!!
I just pull my shoes off before going into the house (attached garage)..

[cah8861]

I havn't found a solution yet.

I am a machinist for a local paper mill, I do it every day min. 8 hrs a day even when I leave my boots at work I still drag chips home, in my hair, in my pockets, behind my belt on my jeans. I have not found a solution for your problem, although we have tried the shop vac also, and it works better than I thought it would. If you find a solution let me know and my wife may even send baked goods as a thank you! Good luck- it's just something you have to put up with.

[jackalope]

Like others have said, there ain't no way around it. It is part of the trade. You make chips, they go everywhere. I have a big problem with swarf from my lathe. I had probably 75lbs of swarf laying on the ground around my lathe. Was machining a bunch of dies for a bender I am building. If I tried to keep the shop clean all of the time, no "work" would ever get done!

Now, ya don't want to make the better half mad by bringing chips in the house I always strip down outside before coming in. We have a shower at the shop but it is filled with grinding dust and everything else from lack of use!
Grant

[Machinist]

Look at it this way Chips on the floor are CHIPS in the pocket...No mess on the floor no money in the pocket

[nocheepgas]

Two Words

WATER JET!

If only............

[jackalope]

WATER JET!

If only............

Uhhhh, try again. That ain't really machining Like plasma cutting or flame cutting.

Grant

[Machinist]

WATER JET!

If only............

I had some 3/4 HRS plate WATER JET cut out one time and can you say very nice edges....But a little pricey