Using the formula K=1/2(MV2), the “average” person can exert over 900 pounds of force with a 16 ounce hammer. You probably verified this fact the last time you hit your thumb with a hammer.
Over the years it has come to my attention that there has been much to do about hammers. Every maintenance shop has quite a variety of them. They also seem to be quite prevalent on the manufacturing floor.
“Random House Dictionary of the English Language” defines hammer as:a tool consisting of a solid head, usually of metal, set crosswise on a handle, used for beating metals, driving nails, etc.to shape or ornament by repeated blows.
The definition to “shape or ornament” perhaps “hits the nail on the head.” I have seen machine handles so badly beaten or “ornamented” they no longer functioned. They are so disfigured that they are hard to recognize. It seems that after the handle receives it’s first decorative blow, then it is okay to continue until it is reduced to wreckage. Nowhere in the definition of hammer is “weapon” mentioned. This leads me to the following question: How can we reduce this needless destruction of our machinery and equipment?
Remove the hammers from the operators areas. This is easily said but almost impossible to control - especially in a large facility.Where a hammer is absolutely necessary - purchase rubber, wood, leather or plastic hammers that will eliminate or minimize damage to the equipment.Talk to the operator about the eventual damage to the equipment.Be on the lookout for hammer abuse and repair the sticking part or tightening problem before more damage is done.For the operators that just can’t get by without a hammer, “drive the point home” by giving the individual a “Blacksmith of the Year” award or something to constantly remind them that a hammer will change the shape of metal.
Remember: Keep that hammer out of the operators hands. Only maintenance personnel are qualified to wield such a powerful force.
If it should happen that one of your people has attacked a piece of equipment and bent a shaft, broke a handle or messed up that bracket, call Cy or Jerry at (513) 771-6797. Machine Worx can supply replacement parts for many kinds of equipment. Machine Worx can upgrade and redesign problem areas, rebuild parts for greater life and productivity, design and build specialty equipment and repair existing worn parts. Machine Worx can work around the clock to assure our customers minimum downtime while waiting for a worn or broken part to be repaired.
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Call Machine Worx. We will be glad to serve your machining requirements.
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