A guide, not a substitute for your induction. These are general good-practice notes. Always follow your induction and the duty officer's directions for this machine.
The milling machine at the Bright United Men's Shed
The milling machine at the Bright United Men's Shed
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Metalwork · Our Workshop

Milling machine

Medium risk Induction required

The mill cuts slots, faces and profiles in metal with accuracy. Clamp it down, dial it in, and let the machine do the work.

  • When
    Metalwork · Fridays
  • Two-member rule
    Don't work alone on this one
  • Before you start
    Complete a milling machine induction

Using it safely

General good practice for a milling machine. Your induction covers the specifics for the machine at our shed.

  • Clamp the work down hardEverything gets bolted or viced firmly. A loose piece becomes a missile.
  • No gloves near the cutterKeep hands and rags well away from the spinning tool.
  • Clear swarf with a brushHot, sharp chips. Brush them, never wipe by hand.
  • Set feeds and speeds rightMatch them to the cutter and metal. Let the tool cut, do not rush it.
  • Stop fully before measuringSpindle stopped and clear before you reach in to check anything.
  • Never work aloneThis is medium-risk gear, so at least one other inducted member must be in the workshop with you.
  • Unsure? Ask a Duty OfficerAlways better to ask. They're happy to help and there's no silly question.

Before you start

An induction is required

Before using the milling machine for the first time, you'll do a short, friendly hands-on induction with an experienced member. We'll walk you through setup, safe operation and how to stop safely, at your own pace.

Book one with a Duty Officer on any open day, or call the shed on 03 5750 1120. Already inducted? Remember the two-member rule still applies.

When it runs

Metalwork · Fridays

The metal bench runs alongside welding on Fridays. Have a yarn with the crew to get going.