- -  AGRICULTURE CORE CURRICULUM  - - 
 
(CLF2000) Advanced Core Cluster: AGRICULTURAL MECHANICS
 
 (CLF2100) Unit Title: TOOL USE AND MAINTENANCE AND SHOP SAFETY

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 (CLF2104) Topic: TOOL SELECTION FOR THE            Time     Year(s)
                    AG MECHANICS SHOP               1 Hour  1 / 2 / 3 / 4
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          Topic Objectives: Upon completion of this lesson, the students
                             will be able to:

          Learning Outcome #:

             (A-2) - Justify in an oral or written statement the selection 
                       of power tools to be used in the agricultural 
                       mechanics program and explain the safe use of each 
                       tool selected (written record to be kept on file in 
                       the agriculture department office).

          Special Material and Equipment: Layout design of shop with 
                       measurements. Price list for tools and sample budget 
                       for department or class.

          References: Burke, Stanley R., & Wakeman, T. J. (1990). MODERN 
                         AGRICULTURAL MECHANICS (2nd ed.). Danville, IL: 
                         Interstate Publishers.

          Evaluation: Quiz by instructor.

TOPIC PRESENTATION: TOOL SELECTION FOR THE AG MECHANICS SHOP

A. Introduction

   1. Obviously, there are many more power tools and other pieces of 
       equipment available than could actually fit into the agricultural 
       mechanics shop. This lesson gives students practical experience in 
       the selection of power tools for the agricultural mechanics program 
       given limiting factors such as size restrictions and monetary limits.

B. Limitations of the Agricultural Mechanics Shop

   1. Size - The size of the shop is a major determinant in selecting power 
       tools. A specific amount of space--dubbed a safety zone--for each 
       piece of power equipment should be provided. Only so much floor space 
       is available in the shop.

   2. Adequate Lighting and Ventilation - Proper ventilation is required 
       for some tools such as welding machines. The lack of a ventilation 
       system will limit the amount of tools that can be purchased for the 
       program.


   3. Proper Outlets - Many power tools run on 220-volt circuits. An 
       adequate electrical system must be in place before these tools can be 
       purchased.

   4. Oversized Doorway - A large door is required to move large pieces of 
       power equipment and work pieces in and out of the shop.

   5. Chimney - If a forge or furnace is to be purchased, the shop must be 
       properly equipped with a chimney.

   6. Concrete Floor - A solid, nonflammable floor surface must be in place 
       in order to provide a proper and safe work environment. Concrete 
       floors are suitable for all shop uses. Dirt floors are adequate but 
       not recommended for long term use.

   7. Security - Tools are an expensive investment for the agricultural 
       mechanics program.

C. Limitations of the Program

   1. Money - Some of the tools found in the agricultural mechanics shop are 
       a major investment for the program. Schools can usually purchase only 
       one or two major pieces of equipment per year. Smaller, portable 
       tools, however, can be purchased in larger quantities.

   2. Liability - Accidents associated with power tools create a liability 
       for the program; the risks of using some equipment, such as forges, is 
       often too great for departments to risk an investment.

   3. Use - Programs generally purchase tools and equipment that will be 
       used the most. Specialized tools like metalworking lathes that will 
       be used only occasionally are not recommended for programs making 
       an initial equipment investment.

D. Common Shop Tools - The following list describes the most essential power
   tools for the agricultural mechanics program.

   1. Portable Electric Drill

   2. Drill Press Stand and Electric Drill

   3. Portable Circular Saw

   4. Bench Grinder

   5. Portable Grinder

   6. Table Saw 

   7. Saber Saw

   8. Air Compressor

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         ACTIVITIES:

         1. Beginning with a layout of an agricultural 
             mechanics shop, equipment price lists, and safety 
             zone areas for each tool, select and place tools in 
             the shop (on paper) and justify the selection of each.
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7/10/91 RRE/tf


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