skillfactor-pipeline/skills/spark-erosion-machine-operator/references/tasks.md

Tasks & work activities — spark erosion machine operator

Source: O*NET 30.3, occupation 51-4081.00 (Multiple 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 workpieces for defects, and measure workpieces to determine accuracy of machine operation, using rules, templates, or other measuring instruments.
• [Core] Observe machine operation to detect workpiece defects or machine malfunctions, adjusting machines as necessary.
• [Core] Read blueprints or job orders to determine product specifications and tooling instructions and to plan operational sequences.
• [Core] Set up and operate machines, such as lathes, cutters, shears, borers, millers, grinders, presses, drills, or auxiliary machines, to make metallic and plastic workpieces.
• [Core] Position, adjust, and secure stock material or workpieces against stops, on arbors, or in chucks, fixtures, or automatic feeding mechanisms, manually or using hoists.
• [Core] Select, install, and adjust alignment of drills, cutters, dies, guides, and holding devices, using templates, measuring instruments, and hand tools.
• [Core] Change worn machine accessories, such as cutting tools or brushes, using hand tools.
• [Core] Make minor electrical and mechanical repairs and adjustments to machines and notify supervisors when major service is required.
• [Core] Start machines and turn handwheels or valves to engage feeding, cooling, and lubricating mechanisms.
• [Core] Perform minor machine maintenance, such as oiling or cleaning machines, dies, or workpieces, or adding coolant to machine reservoirs.
• [Core] Select the proper coolants and lubricants and start their flow.
• [Core] Remove burrs, sharp edges, rust, or scale from workpieces, using files, hand grinders, wire brushes, or power tools.
• [Core] Instruct other workers in machine set-up and operation.
• [Core] Record operational data, such as pressure readings, lengths of strokes, feed rates, or speeds.
• [Core] Extract or lift jammed pieces from machines, using fingers, wire hooks, or lift bars.
• [Core] Set machine stops or guides to specified lengths as indicated by scales, rules, or templates.
• [Core] Move controls or mount gears, cams, or templates in machines to set feed rates and cutting speeds, depths, and angles.
• [Core] Compute data, such as gear dimensions or machine settings, applying knowledge of shop mathematics.
• [Supplemental] Align layout marks with dies or blades.
• [Supplemental] Measure and mark reference points and cutting lines on workpieces, using traced templates, compasses, and rules.
• [Supplemental] Write programs for computer numerical control (CNC) machines to cut metal and plastic materials.

Detailed work activities

• Adjust equipment controls to regulate coolant flow.
• Adjust equipment controls to regulate flow of production materials or products.
• Adjust equipment controls to regulate flow of water, cleaning solutions, or other liquids.
• Align parts or workpieces to ensure proper assembly.
• Calculate dimensions of workpieces, products, or equipment.
• Clean production equipment.
• Clear equipment jams.
• Instruct workers to use equipment or perform technical procedures.
• Lubricate production equipment.
• Maintain production or processing equipment.
• Measure dimensions of completed products or workpieces to verify conformance to specifications.
• Measure materials to mark reference points, cutting lines, or other indicators.
• Mount attachments or tools onto production equipment.
• Mount materials or workpieces onto production equipment.
• Notify others of equipment repair or maintenance needs.
• Operate cutting equipment.
• Operate grinding equipment.
• Operate metal or plastic forming equipment.
• Program equipment to perform production tasks.
• Read work orders or other instructions to determine product specifications or materials requirements.
• Record operational or production data.
• Repair production equipment or tools.
• Replace worn equipment components.
• Review blueprints or other instructions to determine operational methods or sequences.
• Select production equipment according to product specifications.
• Select production input materials.
• Set equipment controls to meet cutting specifications.
• Set equipment guides, stops, spacers, or other fixtures.
• Smooth metal surfaces or edges.
• Watch operating equipment to detect malfunctions.
• Write computer programming code.