Design and Construction of Foundry, Forging and Welding Work-station using Local Available Materials

Abstract

To enhance productivity, stimulate competitiveness and bring about economic development, skill development is important. The main aim of the project was to design and construct foundry work-station at Metalwork Technology Department of Federal College of Education (Technical) Bichi. Institutions offering NCE (Technical) programmes are mandated to provide unit workshops in each area of specialization and equip them in accordance with the required list of equipment. Since TED 121 and TED 211 are part of graduation requirements; the project would facilitate the process of teaching and learning of NCE (Technical) students to quench their quest for competent technical skills. It will also equip the students with appropriate technical skills need. Certainly the project would enhance academic performance in term of skills competency for self-reliance of students and as well benefit the lecturers/instructors in term of their teaching activities. It is clearly known that foundry, forging and welding operations employs excessive heat, if then, there should be enough space and provision for effective ventilation in the workshop, but the existing workshop lack this criteria.  As a result of this work-station is design in such a way that enough openings are provided, the openings are made at the three walls for effective cross-ventilation. In addition a properly maintained dust removal system was made available at appropriate distance. The work done include a designing of a more durable and suitable lining using refractory bricks. The main materials needed for the construction are block/brick, concreting materials, steel and timber.