The Mechanical Workshop Practice (Course Code: 67023) is a fundamental practical course offered under the Diploma in Engineering (Mechanical, Power, Automobile, Refrigeration & Air Conditioning, and related technologies) programs. This course is designed to equip students with hands-on experience and foundational skills in working with tools, machinery, and fabrication techniques essential in mechanical engineering industries. It plays a critical role in bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.
Course Objectives
The primary objectives of the course are to:
- Introduce students to the basic workshop tools and equipment.
- Develop skills in measuring, marking, cutting, drilling, fitting, and assembling mechanical components.
- Familiarise students with safety practices and maintenance of workshop machinery.
- Build confidence in handling manual and powered tools.
- Encourage precision, craftsmanship, and an understanding of engineering drawings.
Course Content and Modules
The Mechanical Workshop Practice (67023) course is divided into multiple modules or shop sections. Each module provides training in a specific domain of workshop technology:
1. Fitting Shop
- Introduction to hand tools like files, hacksaws, chisels, hammers.
- Practice in marking, filing, cutting, and fitting materials.
- Making male-female joints and filing to close tolerances.
2. Machining Shop (Lathe and Drilling)
- Lathe machine introduction, parts, and operations.
- Facing, turning, grooving, threading, and drilling operations.
- Tool setting and workpiece clamping procedures.
3. Sheet Metal Shop
- Tools used in sheet metal work (snips, hammers, stakes).
- Operations like bending, folding, cutting, riveting.
- Making simple sheet metal objects such as trays, funnels, and boxes.
4. Welding Shop
- Introduction to arc and gas welding.
- Welding joints: lap, butt, T-joint, corner joint.
- Safety precautions in welding practices.
5. Carpentry Shop
- Basic tools: saws, planes, chisels, hammers.
- Making wooden joints: dovetail, mortise & tenon, half lap.
- Measurement and planning of simple woodwork components.
6. Blacksmithy/Forging Shop
- Forging techniques: drawing out, bending, upsetting.
- Use of anvil, hammers, tongs, and heating furnaces.
- Making tools and forged parts from mild steel.
7. Foundry Shop (if included)
- Sand mould preparation.
- Pattern making and mould assembly.
- Metal pouring and safety measures.
Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the Mechanical Workshop Practice course, students will be able to:
- Identify and use various tools and machines accurately and safely.
- Perform fitting, machining, carpentry, welding, and sheet metal work independently.
- Interpret simple mechanical drawings and fabricate components accordingly.
- Understand and apply workshop safety standards and housekeeping practices.
- Demonstrate improved manual dexterity, problem-solving, and teamwork in a practical environment.
Assessment Method
- Continuous Assessment: Based on attendance, participation, and performance in practical tasks.
- Practical Assignments: Completion and quality of workshop jobs (with specified tolerances).
- Final Practical Examination: Includes viva voce and hands-on tests.
- Report Submission: Logbook or journal documenting the process, tools used, and learning reflection.
Required Tools and Safety Gear
Students are generally required to procure and maintain basic hand tools and safety gear, such as:
- Measuring tools (steel rule, vernier calliper)
- Files, hacksaw, hammer, screwdrivers
- Safety goggles, gloves, workshop apron, and shoes
Importance in Engineering Education
Mechanical Workshop Practice serves as a foundation for all engineering disciplines, not just mechanical. It instills a strong understanding of how materials behave under manual operations, and fosters an appreciation of craftsmanship, accuracy, and technical drawing interpretation. These skills are indispensable in higher-level courses such as Machine Tools, Manufacturing Processes, and Engineering Design.
Conclusion
The Mechanical Workshop Practice (67023) course is a cornerstone of technical education in engineering institutes, particularly in diploma and vocational streams. It not only prepares students for industrial employment but also cultivates discipline, safety awareness, and technical competence. A student who excels in this course gains a practical edge that is highly valued in the modern engineering workforce.