4.109
Provides the material system knowledge and fabrication process skills to successfully engage with all areas of the shop, from
precision handwork to multi-axis computer numerically controlled (CNC) machining. Progresses through a series of basic exercises
that introduce the material and workflow, concluding with more complex problems that explore opportunities and issues specific to
architecture.
This intensive class provides a solid foundation in shop experience for new users. It meets daily for 3 weeks over IAP (with the 4th week optional),
using a methodical approach and cohesive goal to cover a broad range of shop tool, machine,
and software training, through the process of aluminum sand casting - from making our own tools to machining finished castings.
We cast using aluminum scrap from our water jet and other projects, melted in our own propane furnace in the N51 yard.
Students get thorough miter saw, joiner, table saw, drill press, and wood lathe training in the process of learning to make their
own flasks and rammers, which are lightweight, economical, and easy to work with at the scale dictated by the sizes of
our crucibles. Learning what works and what doesn't, including shortcuts like the rammer in the image below, happens
along with practice using these tools to work through the casting process several times.
Simple hand-cut patterns are made and practiced with first, before we work our way up to CNC-cut patterns.
RESERVATIONS
HOURS
TUTORIALS