Tool and Die Apprenticeship

Madison College Tool and Die Apprenticeship graduates are prepared to:  

• Read Blueprints – Understand and interpret the types of lines used on shop drawings and part prints, apply tolerances and symbols, identify threads, tapers, and machined surfaces, and develop good sketching techniques.
• Perform Bench Work – Identify mechanical hardware and hand tools, precision measuring instruments, part layout, threading with taps and dies, files, and hand and power saws, and practice general shop safety.
• Work Engine Lathes – Basic lathe construction, single-point tool geometry, high-speed and carbide tool applications, and lathe operations including, turning, facing, grooving, boring, drilling, reaming, threading, taper turning, knurling, cut-off and safety.
• Work Tool-Room Milling Machines – Vertical mill construction and operation, end milling, side milling, key ways, boring and counter-boring, drilling and reaming, and follow safety procedures.
• Operate Surface and Cylindrical Grinders – Basic construction and operation, wheel selection, work-holding methods and grinder safety.
• Understand Metallurgy – Properties and applications of both ferrous and non-ferrous metals.
• Understand Mathematics – Fractions, decimals, ratio and proportion, cutting speeds and feeds, basic algebra, geometry and trigonometry.
• Understand Jig and Fixture Design – Describe the basic functions of jigs and fixtures, explain the difference between locators and supports and select appropriate clamping mechanisms.
• Knowledge of Computer Assisted Manufacturing (CAM) – Utilize CAM programs such as Feature-Cam to produce tool-paths for Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) lathes and milling machines.
• Knowledge of Computer Numerical Control (CNC) – Set up and operate CNC lathes and milling machines using Computer Assisted Manufacturing tool-paths.
• Knowledge of Electrical Discharge Machines (EDM) – Describe the principles of EDM operation, compare electrode materials, discuss electrode machining methods, determine flushing requirements, and relate spark frequency to surface finish and metal removal rates.
• Understand Mold Making and Die-Cast Dies – Compare the properties of Thermoplastic and Thermoset plastics, explain the purpose of the various systems of plastic injection molding machines, explain the function of various mold components, select the appropriate metals for cavities, cores and mold bases, describe the different machining operations that may be used to produce mold cavities, cores and bases, calculate runner, gate and venting requirements, and demonstrate mold-polishing techniques.
• Understand Basic Die Making (Metal Stamping Dies) – Identify basic die components, explain the differences between blanking and piercing dies, calculate cutting and stripping forces, determine burr-side location, calculate bend allowances, develop stock strip layouts, calculate scrap-web allowances, explain the use of pilots, compare fixed and traveling strippers, calculate die spring requirements, and select appropriate steels for punches and dies.