18 Lessons provide a comprehensive overview of the various types of grinding used in modern manufacturing environments. Surface, cylindrical, centerless, and internal grinding processes are commonly used for workpieces of various shapes. Surface grinding is further distinguished by whether the table is rotary or reciprocating, and whether the spindle is vertically or horizontally oriented. Cylindrical grinding is distinguished by work holding, whether center-type or chucking-type. Centerless grinding can be either through feed or infeed, and internal grinding can be done on a cylindrical or centerless grinder.

A foundational knowledge of the different types of grinding, including how they operate and what types of workpieces they are appropriate for, is necessary for any further learning or training in grinding. This class introduces students to the various types of grinding that they may encounter, describing both machine tools and movements.

“Intro to CNC Machines” provides a comprehensive introduction to computer numerical control (CNC), which uses numerical data to control a machine. CNC machines rely on a system of three linear and three rotational axes to calculate the motion and position of machine components and workpieces. A machine control unit controls and guides the movements of the machine tool. This class also describes PTP positioning, which moves to the end position before the tool begins to cut, and continuous path systems that can move a tool along two or more axes at once and cut during the movement. Additionally, closed-loop systems provide feedback, while open-loop systems do not.

CNC machines are used to make a variety of products using many different processes. With proper training, a human operator can use CNC machines to make accurate parts with decreased risk of error. After taking this class, users should be able to describe common components of CNC machine tools and controls.

“NEC Overview” provides information on the contents, purpose, history, and applications of the National Electrical Code. The NEC is written for experienced electrical workers. The NEC(R) is the essential standard on minimum safe installations. While safe practices are encouraged when working with electrical systems and the NEC(R) offers them, the code is not the law unless it is adopted by local government. However, the NEC(R), in some form, is the law for minimum electrical installations in all states. Using and understanding the National Electrical Code is essential for anyone who works with electrical systems. This course assists readers in navigating the NEC(R) and understanding its function. After completing this course, users will be able to describe the structure of the National Electric Code(R), as well as its major guidelines that impact electrical maintenance in production facilities.

14 intermediates lessons discuss the variables involved in mechanical power transmission and how they affect industrial processes. Includes an Interactive Lab.

26 lessons for advanced teams, “Hydraulic Power Variables” provides users with a foundational knowledge of variable factors in hydraulic power and how the variables affect hydraulic systems. Hydraulic power variables are measurable or quantifiable characteristics of a hydraulic system or system component. The two most integral variables are fluid flow and pressure. Additional power variables include speed, horsepower, and torque. Changing any variable impacts the system’s operation.

After taking “Hydraulic Power Variables,” users will understand how the variables of a hydraulic system contribute to the manipulation of pressurized fluid to transmit power. Understanding the power variables allows hydraulic system operators to predict the performance of a system and select compatible components.

The 16-lesson, advanced class “Pneumatic Power Variables” provides users with a foundational knowledge of pneumatic power and the pneumatic systems that generate it. Pneumatic power variables are measurable or quantifiable characteristics of a pneumatic system or system component. The two most integral variables are fluid flow and pressure. Additional power variables include speed, horsepower, and torque.

After taking “Pneumatic Power Variables” users will understand how the different variables of a system affect the transmission of power in a system. Further they will understand how to evaluate and select the most appropriate and efficient components to power a pneumatic system.

19 intermediate lessons describe the basic layout of hydraulic and pneumatic prints and addresses the most commons symbols used to identify components.

This intermediate class (16 lessons) provides an overview of actuators for fluid power systems, including cylinders, rotary actuators, and fluid motors. Includes an Interactive Lab.

“Concepts of Robot Programming” introduces the methods that engineers use to train robots to perform manufacturing tasks and the ideas behind those methods. Programming methods include online programming, where robots remain active during programming, and offline programming, where programming occurs independently of robots. Ideas behind robot programming methods include coordinate systems and control programs.

Robots are increasingly used in manufacturing operations to perform tasks with great speed and accuracy. Having engineers who understand how to program robots will allow manufacturers to improve the productivity, quality, and safety of several different manufacturing operations, including welding, assembling, and packaging. After taking this course, users will understand the ideas behind robot programming and know the basics of the most commonly used programming methods, such as teach-pendant programming and simulations.

In this intermediate class with 13 lessons, you will learn about the basic types control systems. You will also learn about the effects of PID control in closed-loop control systems and how to tune your system to achieve the desired performance.

This 16-lesson intermediate class describes common ways networks are used for manufacturing. It also describes practical network concerns and identifies some of the technology used to make industrial networks function correctly.

26 lessons at Intermediate levels discuss the factors manufacturers should consider when adding an additive manufacturing (AM) component to a traditional manufacturing operation, including cost, logistics, and best uses of AM with traditional manufacturing, among other concerns. Originally used for prototyping, AM has increasingly found more roles in traditional manufacturing processes, such as creating tooling or end-use parts. However, because the procedures and tools are so different, combining the two kinds of manufacturing requires considerable adjustments.

Logistical concerns of integrating AM with traditional manufacturing include purchasing the correct machines and updating safety protocols. Design concerns involve upskilling engineers so that they can take full advantage of AM capabilities. After taking this course, users will understand how to take full advantage of AM as a tool to augment a traditional manufacturing operation.

20 Intermediate level lessons provide a comprehensive overview of the way in which manufacturers can use additive manufacturing (AM) as a secondary, or indirect, process. AM methods can make a variety of tooling, such as molds and patterns, for use in several different casting, forming, and molding processes. Using AM as a secondary process benefits traditional manufacturing processes by reducing costs associated with lead time, tooling, and labor. An individual must understand the different advantages and disadvantages associated with AM as a secondary process prior to determining if to utilize it.

Knowledge about AM secondary processes and their benefits is important in order to understand the full impact that AM has upon traditional manufacturing. After completing this class, users will be able to identify the traditional manufacturing areas that benefit from using AM as a secondary process and the advantages and disadvantages of doing so.

This class with 16 lessons at the beginner level describes common methods for inspecting composites and preventing defects.

This 18-lesson class of advanced material covers basic procedures and best practices for repairing composites, as well as the structure of composite laminates and sandwich panels.

With 24 lessons, the advanced level “Introduction to GD&T” provides a basic introduction to the symbols and vocabulary of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing or GD&T. Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T) is an international design standard that uses 14 standard geometric tolerances to control the shape of features. GD&T emphasizes the fit, form, and function of a part by comparing the physical features of the part to the imaginary datums specified in the design instructions. Every part feature is described by a series of symbols, which are organized in the feature control frame.

Because GD&T uses tolerance zones that more accurately follow the shape of a feature rather than a square grid and emphasizes the relationship between features, blueprints usually utilize GD&T to describe parts. This means that to fully understand a blueprint, it is necessary to know the GD&T symbols and what they mean. After taking this class, users should be able to better understand the symbols commonly used in a GD&T print.

Cutting Processes provides an introductory overview of the common metal cutting operations through 24 lessons at the beginner level. To those new to manufacturing and machining, familiarity with the basic machines, tools, and principles of metal cutting is essential. The class focuses on the most common machining tools, the saw, lathe, and mill, and the common processes performed on each, such as band sawing, turning, end milling, and drilling. “Cutting Processes” also offers an introduction to hole making and describes the differences between inner and outer diameter operations.

A basic, foundational knowledge of metal cutting processes is essential to gain an understanding of more advanced information such as cutting theory, tool and workpiece material, cutting variables, and tool geometries. After taking this class, students should be able to identify the most common cutting processes, as well as the machines used to perform them.

This beginner level, 14-lesson class teaches the basics of effectively leading a team, including building a strong team, picking team members and resolving conflicts. Includes an Interactive Lab.

 This class includes lessons on:

• Distinguish between a group and a team.
• Describe a collective goal.
• Identify the elements of a good team.
• Describe the role of a team leader.
• Describe the roles of team members.
• Describe the three skills of ideal team members.
• List the methods for establishing leadership of a pre-existing team.
• List the issues used to stress the importance of performance.
• Explain how to avoid the pitfalls of autonomy.
• Describe team-based decision making.
• Explain how to solve a team conflict.
• Describe how to reframe a conflict.

The 23-lesson class “Basic Measurement” offers an overview of common gaging and variable inspection tools and methods-beginner level. Variable inspection takes a specific measurement using common devices such as calipers and micrometers. The sensitivity of the instrument must be greater than the measurement being taken. Both calipers and micrometers are read by finding the alignments in lines on the devices. Gages, such as gage blocks, plug gages, ring gages, and thread gages, reveal whether a dimension is acceptable or unacceptable without a specific quantity. All inspection devices should be properly mastered and maintained to retain accuracy. One of the fundamental activities of any shop is the measurement of part features. Consistent measurement and inspection maintains standardization and ensures that out-of-tolerance parts do not reach customers. After taking this class, users should be able to describe the use and care of common inspection instruments and gages used in the production environment.