Metal Workshop Expansion 2026

Now the woodshop move is complete, we can start work on expanding the metal workshop. We had some useful initial discussion here: https://bristolhackspace.discourse.group/t/metal-workshop-expansion-planning/3925 and the intent is to capture issues and decisions in this wiki

Fire sensors: The metalshop currently has two, and if we keep the strip curtain, it needs to stay somewhere between these sensors.
Hotworks only insured for welding and griding.
Welding only within an arc-shielded environment
Welding needs ventilation so either next to the roller shutter or fit the welding extractor we have in storage.
Old woodshop has the mezzanine supports which have Intumescent paint. Hotworks might damage the paint.
The welder needs a 16A supply which we have by the shutter (plus another in the woodshop which was installed for the jointer).
Wall behind the current wooden metalshop bench has a removable lower panel for access to the laser room

Welding in an area where there is no chance anyone will accidentally enter. The current layout is not ideal.
Lathe in a position where workpieces that protrude a long way out of the left side will not cause a hazzard
Group machines that are commonly used together
Separate dirty and/or noisy machines from cleaner/quieter machines
Workbenches in the centre of the room (following the woodshop layout)

All new equipment needs a proposal. Some of the suggestions may not be practicable.

Category	Existing	Planned
Cutting/machining/drilling	Yes	Yes
Welding	Yes	Yes	Hotworks
Grinding	Yes	Yes	Hotworks
Sand blasting	Yes	TBD
Paint shop	No	TBD	Unlikely to fit in space.
CNC	No	Yes
Bicycle maintenance	Yes	Yes?	Needs discussion
Vehicle maintenance	No	No	Provide tools only. “Metalshop not a garage”