MECHANICAL DRAFTING: Beginner (Book with DVD) (Workbook Included)

Mechanical Drafting: Beginner comprehends various diverse practical and visual skills with knowledge of specialized materials and techniques. Mechanical drafting is a specialist profession based on technical drafting and computer-aided drafting (CAD) that concentrates on blueprints of machines and machine components used by engineers. This book will introduce the knowledge and skills for those studying and/or working in to interpret and convey information in response to workplace requirements.

About this Book

The information in this book consists of competencies that a person must achieve to interpret sketches, prepare basic engineering drawing and perform basic engineering drafting.

About the Mechanical Drafting Industry

A mechanical drafter creates detailed schematics that demonstrate how a particular machine should be assembled or how a mechanical system operates. He or she utilizes hand drawing skills as well as computer-aided drafting (CAD) software to produce easy-to-follow blueprints and instruction manuals. By working closely with engineers and machine operators, drafters are able to make vital safety and efficiency improvements to designs. Most mechanical drafters are employed by large manufacturing plants and parent corporations that produce industrial equipment. They aid in the design of any number of large, complex systems, including airplane engines, assembly line stations, robotic equipment, and power generators. Some drafters work for consulting firms that specialize in providing blueprints for equipment manufactured by many different companies. In addition, experienced mechanical drafters often decide to offer freelance services to a number of clients. Self-employed professionals typically enjoy a great deal of freedom in what projects they take on and where they work. Regardless of the specific job setting, a mechanical drafter needs to be very familiar with the types of machinery that he or she is asked to draw. The requirements to become a mechanical drafter vary, but most hopeful workers decide to pursue training in vocational school or university programs. A degree program in drafting and design provides classroom education and hands-on training with the tools and techniques needed to excel in the field. From 2008 to 2018, mechanical drafting hiring rate is expected to neither increase nor decrease. It is encouraged to either take additional training in drafting after attending a four-year college/university to develop better technical skills and gain more experience with CAD (computer-aided design).