Check the oil level before use. The reservoir is on the back of the hammer and has a sight glass where you can see the oil. If it’s low, there is a bottle of oil in the tool cage by the hammer. You can also ask a Make staff member for help if you don’t feel comfortable doing it yourself. DON’T adjust the valve on the reservoir.
Oil the ram before you begin forging. There is a pump oiler in the cage with the oil.
When changing dies, make sure the dies and keys are in their proper orientations–they only fit one way. Clean all grime/scale/oil off the dovetails and keys before re-installing the dies..
If you hear or notice anything strange about the way the hammer is running, notify Make staff immediately.
Always put the wood prop in place when shutting down the hammer so the ram is protected within the cylinder.
At the end of your session, please put everything away where you found it. You can play a big part in making sure the smithy is as neat and orderly as the other studios at Make, and you will make it easier for everyone who comes after you.
Literature
Ornamental/handwork: Otto Schmirler “Werk und Werkzeug des Kunstschmieds”
