This class is intended for TC Maker members but is open to all. Focus is on basic welding knowledge and basic hand tools in the shop.For Updated COVID Guidelines at TC Maker Click Here
About the Class
This class, hosted by Twin Cities Maker, focuses on an easy and accessible introduction to MIG welding. The goal of this class is to become more comfortable with MIG welding, setting-up your machine, the mechanics of movement with MIG welding.
Who this Class is For
This class is for absolute beginners or folks looking to get a refresh on skills. We cover a lot of basic welding safety, theory, and common joints and welds. If you're looking to get more comfortable using the TC Maker welding shop, or have a guided introduction to the welders, this class will cover that!
What to Expect
This class is two hours long and limited to six people. The first hour of this class will cover how to use the MIG machines, the tools and components for MIG welding and how to set-up your space safely. The second half of the class will give a simple framework to evaluate your welds and we'll learn from each other with our first welds. Joints and how to tack pieces will also be covered. This should be considered a brief introduction to welding, you'll learn some basic techniques and be able to practice. Much of welding is about practice and muscle memory, the purpose of this class is to allow you to feel more confident about working and evaluating your welds on your own.
We will focus on the basics with thin sheet metal, but there is an optional add-on for more practice time and work with plate metal. This add-on is an two hours after the end of class and plate metal is provided.
Welding hoods, safety glasses clothing protection, and a very limited range of gloves (good for smaller hands!) are provided.
The following are recommendations for those wanting to bring their own PPE:
Clothing: If you are not going to wear a welding jacket you MUST wear 100% cotton or wool, jeans with NO paint or oil or other material on there, and leather shoes. No tennis shoes or other footwear with synthetic material.
Gloves: Please purchase a pair of your own gloves. You don't need heavy-duty gloves, a pair like this will do well ($7.28) or even this ($8.95).
Welding Hoods: Because welding woods are PPE we breathe into, please consider purchasing your own auto-darkening hood but sanitized hoods will be available for class use. If you see yourself welding in the future, it's a solid investment.
For folks who have the additional money to spend, I recommend the Weldcote hood, you can buy it online or at Metro Welding, located on Central in NE. If you're looking for something that costs less, reviews have been positive for this Miller auto-darkening hood, but it's still a little pricey at $86. The hoods we use are these Chicago Electric hoods from Harbor Freight ($36) if you're not sure welding is for you or you would like to spend less initially but want to bring your own hood.
Depending on where we are when this class begins, updates to policy and practices will be provided.
Physical Space
The floors are concrete (going to be harder on joints) and there is seating available. There is water , a soda machine, and one bathroom. There are six stairs; three to get to the main door and three more to step-up into the larger shop area. If you need additional accessibility information or support, please reach out to the instructor. There is also often loud noises and dust; if you have sensitive lungs please bring a respirator! There will be earplugs as well.
About the Instructor
Cory Gabrielle currently works as an apprentice They've been welding for over five years in various roles and has a degree in Welding Technology and HVAC-R. They love working on ways to make information more accessible and understandable to all, and enjoy teaching and sharing ideas. You can reach Cory through the Hack Factory metal shop email for general questions, or contact Cory directly ([email protected])
May 14, 2022
Starts: 10:00 AM
Ends: 12:30 PM