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AMAZON multi-meters discounts AMAZON oscilloscope discounts QUICK FACTS about this job:
AMAZON multi-meters discounts AMAZON oscilloscope discounts OVERVIEW Precision metalworkers are skilled crafts workers who produce the tools,
dies, molds, cutting devices, and guiding and holding devices used in
the mass production of a variety of products, including automobiles. HISTORY The modern machine tool industry came into existence around the beginning of the 19th century. One of the most important early contributors was Eli Whitney, the American inventor and manufacturer who is credited with the first successful use of standardized, interchangeable parts in manufacturing. When Whitney received an order from the U.S. government in 1798 for thousands of muskets, he envisioned a new work method. He realized that he could design machines that would allow unskilled workers to turn out many identical copies of each part in a musket. In carrying out his plan, he invented jigs (tool-guiding patterns) and fixtures (devices that clamp workpieces in place). They were the first versions of devices that are very important in today’s tool and die making. Another significant invention of the 19th century was the power press, which could be fitted with presswork dies, or stamping dies, to cut and form items out of sheet metal. Today, the fabrication of presswork dies remains an important part of tool and die making. Other significant developments in the field have included methods for die-casting metals and injection-molding materials, such as plastics. The rapid growth of mass production techniques in the late 19th century spurred the development of tool and die shops, mostly small, independent contractors, who today employ the majority of precision metalworkers in the United States. Also, as manufacturing industries (including the automotive industry) came to use more kinds of precision tools and dies, the workers who fabricate them have become increasingly specialized. So, even though today’s tools and dies make hundreds of thousands of mass-produced parts, they themselves must be custom made by highly skilled crafts workers. Today’s tooling shops typically perform a few very sophisticated types of tasks, rather than a broad range of tool making and die making. THE JOB Tool, die, and mold makers are among the most highly skilled production workers in the economy. They possess a broad knowledge of machining operations, can read complex blueprints, and are able to do complicated mathematical calculations. They may put together several parts to form subassemblies, and then put the subassemblies together to build an entire vehicle. In a small shop, a single worker is typically responsible for all the steps necessary to complete a part from start to finish, while in a larger shop, specialized production tasks are allocated among several workers, with the tool maker or die maker acting as a job supervisor. Many types of machine shops and workers are covered under the tool and die category. They include tool and die shops that produce dies, punches, die sets and components, sub-presses, jigs and fixtures, and special checking devices. Also included are companies that manufacture molds for die-casting and foundry casting, and shops that make metal molds for plastics, rubber, plaster, and glass working. In general, press-working dies are used to cut and shape sheet metals with electrical or hydraulic presses. Composed of two units, the upper part attaches to a press ram and the lower part attaches to a press bed. Molding dies, used to form both metals and plastics, consist of two units which when closed form a cavity into which molten material is poured. No matter what the shop produces, however, when a job first arrives, the tool and die makers must analyze instructions, blue prints, sketches, or models of the finished product. Using such information, they decide how to go about making the device. After the dimensions are computed, tool and die makers plan the layout and assembly processes and decide on a sequence of operations for machining the metal. When the plan is clear, workers select and lay out metal stock, measuring and marking the metal, and if necessary, cutting it into pieces of the approximate size needed for the project. They set up the machine tools, such as lathes, drill presses, and grinders, and care fully cut, bore, and drill the metal according to their predetermined plan. In the machining process, they closely monitor the dimensions of the workpiece since their work must have a high degree of accuracy—frequently within ten-thousandths of an inch. Measuring equipment, such as micrometers, gauge blocks, and dial indicators, is used to ensure precision. When satisfied that the parts are accurately machined in accordance with the original specifications, tool and die makers fit the pieces together to make the final product. They may need to do finishing work on the product, such as filing and smoothing surfaces. Depending on the size and complexity of the device, the production process may take weeks or months to complete. Modern technology is changing the way tools are developed and produced. Firms now commonly use computer-aided design to develop products and parts, and to design the tooling to make the parts. These tool drawings are then processed by a computer pro gram to calculate cutting paths and the sequence of operations. Once these instructions are developed, computer numerical control tool machines are usually used to produce the individual components of the tool. Often, these programs are stored for future use. REQUIREMENTS High School Applicants for jobs in this field need to have at least a high school or vocational school education. Courses in mathematics, blueprint reading, drafting, computers, metalworking, and machine shop are very useful. Postsecondary Training Precision metal-workers can learn their trade either through informal on-the-job training or formal apprenticeships, which most employers prefer because of the thoroughness of the training. Lasting four to five years, apprenticeships combine a planned and supervised on-the-job training program with class work in related fields. On the job, apprentices learn how to set up and operate machine tools, such as lathes, milling machines, grinders, and jig borers. They also learn to use other mechanical equipment, gauges, and various hand tools. In addition, they receive classroom instruction in blueprint reading, mechanical drawing, tool programming, shop theory, shop mathematics, properties of various metals, and tool design. Workers who become on-the-job trainees are initially assigned simple tasks that usually involve operating machines; later they are given increasingly more complex work. They pick up skills gradually. One drawback to this method is that it may take many years to learn all the necessary skills. Tool and die makers or mold makers may start out as machinists. They supplement their metalworking experience with additional training, which may include layout work, shop mathematics, blue print reading, heat-treating, and the use of precision tools, through vocational or correspondence schools. Certification and Licensing Many apprenticeship-training facilities have incorporated a set curriculum established by the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS). After students complete the established courses and pass performance evaluations and written exams, they receive a formal recognition of competency, a NIMS credential. This designation aids in their job search by confirming their skills and knowledge of the metalworking field. Other Requirements Precision metalworkers have a mechanical aptitude and the ability to work with careful attention to detail. To ensure the absolute precision of their work, they are very methodical and continuously check measurements of the workpiece throughout the job. Workers also need to be able to work as efficiently as possible, with a minimum waste of time or materials. Good eyesight is a must, and in some jobs, workers must be able to lift moderately heavy objects. Because they often work without close supervision, tool and die makers need to be self-motivated and organized in their work habits. In addition, they need good communication skills to help them work in cooperation with others. EXPLORING There are several ways to learn about precision metalworking. Hobbies such as tinkering with cars, making models, and assembling electronic equipment may be helpful in testing patience, accuracy, and mechanical ability, all of which are important qualities for tool and die makers. A field trip to a mold shop, tool and die shop, or automotive manufacturing plant can give you a glimpse of the work in this field and may offer the opportunity to talk to experienced workers. Even better is a part-time or summer job in such a setting. Although your work would probably be basic labor, such as sweeping floors, the experience could provide a valuable opportunity to observe firsthand the day-to-day activities in a machine shop. EMPLOYERS Most precision metalworkers are employed in independent job shops where tools and dies are tailor-made for a variety of manufacturers. These shops are generally located in the Midwest, North east, and West. The largest concentration is in Michigan. Precision metalworkers also work in industries that manufacture machines and equipment for metalworking, automobiles, and other motor vehicles, aircraft, and plastics products. Among large manufacturers, such as automakers, however, there seems to be a trend to close in-house shops. STARTING OUT Information about apprentice programs and job openings for prospective precision metalworkers is available from various sources. These include the state employment offices; local employers, such as tool and die shops and manufacturing firms; various metalworking trade associations; and the local offices of unions, such as the United Auto Workers or the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers. Additionally, high school, vocational school, and technical institute students may get help from their teachers or the career services office at their schools. ADVANCEMENT After completing apprenticeship training, workers often need several more years of experience to learn the most difficult and specialized skills. Well-qualified, experienced workers may have several avenues of advancement open to them. With today’s shortage of precision metalworkers, opportunities are plentiful for those who have good experience. Some may choose to move into a larger shop for more pay or accept a supervisory position. Others may decide to become a tool designer or specialist in programming computer numerical control tool machines. Another possibility for some tool makers is to become a tool inspector in an industry that requires a particularly high degree of accuracy in components. Many workers go into business for them selves, opening their own independent job shops to make items for manufacturing firms that don't maintain their own tool-making or die-making department. EARNINGS Earnings for tool and die makers are generally good. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the mean annual wage for those employed in motor vehicle parts manufacturing was $53,630 in 2006. The lowest 10 percent of all tool and die makers earned less than $28,810, while the top 10 percent earned more than $67,420. Workers in mold making in the motor vehicle parts manufacturing industry earned a mean salary of $31,940 in 2006. Salaries for mold makers in all industries ranged from less than $16,890 to $40,270 or more. In addition to regular earnings, most precision metalworkers receive benefits such as health insurance, paid vacation days, and retirement plans. WORK ENVIRONMENT Precision metalworkers typically work 40 hours per week, although overtime is not unusual. Most plants that employ these workers operate only one shift per day. They usually work in shops that are adequately lighted, temperature-controlled, and well ventilated. Their work areas are not typically very noisy, as opposed to production departments. There are exceptions, however—tool and die departments that are near production areas or heat-treating or casting areas may be hot and noisy. Workers spend much of the day standing and moving about, and they may occasionally have to lift moderately heavy objects. To avoid injury from machines and flying bits of metal, workers must follow good safety practices and use appropriate protective gear, including safety glasses and hearing protectors. In some set tings, workers are exposed to smoky conditions, and they may get oil, coolants, and other irritating substances on their skin. Since most precision metalworkers work on a variety of projects, their work is seldom routine. In some cases, workers are completing several jobs at once. Many who choose this field find the work to be very satisfying. They typically work with little supervision. They also have the pleasure of seeing a project through from start to finish and knowing that they have done a precise and skillful job. OUTLOOK Although employers report difficulty in finding skilled workers for their jobs, the employment of precision metalworkers is expected to decline through 2016, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. More numerically controlled machine tools and other automated equipment are being used so fewer operations are being done by hand, resulting in fewer workers being needed. Furthermore, some products that are mass produced using tools and dies are being imported from abroad, as are some tools and dies. China, for example, is becoming a competitor in the tool and die-making field, although their technology is not yet at the level of shops here. Despite this employment prediction, openings are still available for new workers each year. Many of the workers presently employed in these occupations are approaching retirement, which will result in job openings. Many more openings will occur due to individuals advancing into other fields. Employers in almost every area of the country are experiencing significant trouble filling positions, according to several trade associations. Highly skilled workers can continue to expect to have very good job opportunities if the shortage grows more acute. These crafts workers play a key role in the operation of many firms. As firms continue to invest in new equipment and modify production techniques, they will continue to rely heavily on skilled tool and die makers for retooling. This, coupled with the growing demand for products that use machined parts, should help to keep demand constant for qualified precision metalworkers. FOR MORE INFORMATION For information on training and apprenticeships in precision metalworking, contact the following: International Union of Electronic, Electrical, Salaried, Machine, and Furniture Workers-Communications Workers of America 501 Third Street, NW Washington, DC 20001-2797 Tel: 202-434-1100 International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace, and Agricultural Implement Workers of America 8000 East Jefferson Avenue Detroit, MI 48214-2699 Tel: 313-926-5000 For industry information, contact American Mold Builders Association 701 East Irving Park Road, Suite 207 Roselle, IL 60172-2357 Tel: 630-980-7667 Email: info@amba.org For information about skill standards and obtaining NIMS credentials, contact: National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) 10565 Fairfax Boulevard, Suite 203 Fairfax, VA 22030-3135 Tel: 703-352-4971 Email: nims@nims-skills.org For information about training and opportunities in the precision machining and metalworking industries, contact National Tooling and Machining Association 9300 Livingston Road Fort Washington, MD 20744-498 8 Tel: 800-248-6862 Email: info@ntma.org For useful resources about careers and internships in the metalforming industry, contact: Precision Metal-forming Association Educational Foundation 6363 Oak Tree Boulevard Independence, OH 44131-2500 Tel: 216-901-8800 Email: pmaef@pma.org http://www.metalforming.com/edufound Visit the Careers in Manufacturing section of the TMA’s Web site for more information on careers, wages, and educational recommendations. Tooling and Manufacturing Association (TMA) 1177 South Dee Road Park Ridge, IL 60068-4379 Tel: 847-825-1120 Prev: Careers and Jobs as Precision Machinists |
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