This was an enterprise project to raise funds for a project my students wanted to make.

Learning Objective
By making an engine turned coaster KS4 GCSE students will learn and apply knowledge in a practical situation. This knowledge covers use of an engine turning tool and CAD / CAM. This project was used as part of a enterprise activity where students made various products. By using this project in their enterprise activity students gain entrepreneurial skills and begin to see the link between time to make / materials cost Vs sale price.

Step 1: Engine Turning Tool

  • These can be bought but my students make their own
  • Put the tool into drill chuck
Pardon my ignorance but what exactly is an &quot;Engine Turning Tool&quot;? <br><br>In Step #1, the tool looks like it has a layer of a different material connected to an aluminium body for making the 'swirl' marks. What do your students use to make that layer on their's and how is it connected to the tool body? I've seen similar but much smaller effects done by chucking a pencil and using the eraser to 'rub' the metal which leaves a consistent pattern and a smooth surface but the photos of the plates make it look like the swirls vary slightly from one location to the next and could be a couple thousandths deep. Is this an illusion or does the plate surface actually have a texture? Do the students use any type of abrasive or polishing compound to get this effect?<br><br>Also, how thick of aluminium sheet are you using? <br><br>This is a very cool project that provides some great learning opportunities. Thanks for sharing it!!!
Where did you get the aluminum plates?
We have plenty of it in school, but most DIY warehouses will sell it

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