Using an air chisel

Part 1. Preparation and safety

Objective

• Demonstrate the correct use of an air chisel.

Personal safety

Whenever you perform a task in the workshop you must use personal protective clothing and equipment that is appropriate for the task and which conforms to your local safety regulations and policies. Among other items, this may include:

• Work clothing - such as coveralls and steel-capped footwear
• Eye protection - such as safety glasses and face masks
• Ear protection - such as earmuffs and earplugs
• Hand protection - such as rubber gloves and barrier cream
• Respiratory equipment - such as face masks and valved respirators

If you are not certain what is appropriate or required, ask your supervisor.

Safety check

• Make sure you direct the exhaust of air tools away from yourself and others working in the area.
• Always wear eye protection when using air tools.
• An air chisel's operation produces a noise level that exceeds the maximum exposure level for human ears. Always wear ear protection when using an air chisel.
• Make sure that you understand and observe all legislative and personal safety procedures when carrying out the following tasks. If you are unsure of what these are, ask your supervisor.

Points to note

• Air chisels act in a similar manner to a jackhammer, however their size makes their cycling rate faster.
• Place the tool bit against the work piece before you pull the trigger.
• Use the correct attachment for the task you are performing. Incorrect use can create a large amount of damage in a short time.
• Air tools are attached to the air supply by fittings that allow the supply to be connected and disconnected easily. Over time, these connections wear and develop an air leak. If the air leak is excessive, the output of the air tool will be reduced.
• Air tools require lubrication. Most workshops have an automatic oiler incorporated in the air supply system. If your workshop does not have an automatic oiler or if the automatic oiler is not operating, you will need to lubricate the air tools daily. Apply a few drops of oil to the inlet of the air tool before you use it.

Part 2: Step-by-step instruction

1. Select and fit the bit
   Fit the appropriate bit into the nozzle of the gun.
2. Position the chisel
   Position the chisel so it’s pointing directly away from you and fits squarely on to the work piece. Be sure NOT to pull the trigger until the bit is pressed against the piece to be cut. Wear appropriate eye and ear protection.
3. Work slowly
   Apply gentle pressure to the chisel and pull the trigger. Allow the chisel to do the work, and work slowly around the bolt head.