skillfactor-pipeline/skills/metalworking-lathe-operator/references/tasks.md

Tasks & work activities — metalworking lathe operator

Source: O*NET 30.3, occupation 51-4034.00 (Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic) — manual nearest-occupation mapping via ISCO group 7223; the official ESCO crosswalk has no entry for this ESCO occupation.

Task statements

• [Core] Inspect sample workpieces to verify conformance with specifications, using instruments such as gauges, micrometers, and dial indicators.
• [Core] Study blueprints, layouts or charts, and job orders for information on specifications and tooling instructions, and to determine material requirements and operational sequences.
• [Core] Adjust machine controls and change tool settings to keep dimensions within specified tolerances.
• [Core] Move controls to set cutting speeds and depths and feed rates, and to position tools in relation to workpieces.
• [Core] Start lathe or turning machines and observe operations to ensure that specifications are met.
• [Core] Select cutting tools and tooling instructions, according to written specifications or knowledge of metal properties and shop mathematics.
• [Core] Crank machines through cycles, stopping to adjust tool positions and machine controls to ensure specified timing, clearances, and tolerances.
• [Core] Lift metal stock or workpieces manually or using hoists, and position and secure them in machines, using fasteners and hand tools.
• [Core] Replace worn tools, and sharpen dull cutting tools and dies, using bench grinders or cutter-grinding machines.
• [Core] Position, secure, and align cutting tools in toolholders on machines, using hand tools, and verify their positions with measuring instruments.
• [Core] Compute unspecified dimensions and machine settings, using knowledge of metal properties and shop mathematics.
• [Core] Install holding fixtures, cams, gears, and stops to control stock and tool movement, using hand tools, power tools, and measuring instruments.
• [Core] Move toolholders manually or by turning handwheels, or engage automatic feeding mechanisms to feed tools to and along workpieces.
• [Core] Turn valve handles to direct the flow of coolant onto work areas or to coat disks with spinning compounds.
• [Core] Mount attachments, such as relieving or tracing attachments, to perform operations, such as duplicating contours of templates or trimming workpieces.
• [Core] Refill, change, and monitor the level of fluids, such as oil and coolant, in machines.
• [Core] Program computer numerical control machines.
• [Core] Clean work area.

Detailed work activities

• Adjust equipment controls to regulate coolant flow.
• Calculate dimensions of workpieces, products, or equipment.
• Clean work areas.
• Conduct test runs of production equipment.
• Feed materials or products into or through equipment.
• Install mechanical components in production equipment.
• Lift materials or workpieces using cranes or other lifting equipment.
• Measure dimensions of completed products or workpieces to verify conformance to specifications.
• Monitor equipment operation to ensure that products are not flawed.
• Mount attachments or tools onto production equipment.
• Mount materials or workpieces onto production equipment.
• Operate cutting equipment.
• Operate grinding equipment.
• Operate metal or plastic forming equipment.
• Perform basic equipment maintenance.
• Program equipment to perform production tasks.
• Program robotic equipment.
• Read work orders or other instructions to determine product specifications or materials requirements.
• Replace worn equipment components.
• Review blueprints or other instructions to determine operational methods or sequences.
• Select production equipment according to product specifications.
• Set equipment controls to meet cutting specifications.
• Sharpen cutting or grinding tools.