Precision Machine Technology (C.A.S.)

The Precision Machine Technology Certificate of Applied Science program provides instruction in the theory and operation of mills and lathes, both manual and CNC, other tools related to the machinist trade, and associated programming. Students can earn NIMS credentials in all phases of the training. Upon completion of this program, students will enter employment in the machining industry, pursue apprenticeship in machining, or further their education toward higher academic degrees.

Certificate of Applied Science - Precision Machine Technology

Missoula College

Catalog Year: 2016-2017

Degree Specific Credits: 34

Required Cumulative GPA: 2.0


Certificate of Applied Science in Precision Machine Technology

Rule: All courses required

Show All Course Descriptions Course Credits
Show Description DDSN 135 - Solidworks
his course aggregates fundamental concepts of Blueprint Reading and Interpretation (MCH 120) and Machine Quality Control and Precision Measurements (MCH 129) in the form of gaining practical application of concepts to 3D solid modeling. 3D models will include drawings with symbols, various schematics and diagrams, dimensioning techniques, section views, auxiliary views, threads and fasteners typical to shop drawings. Application of specifications and acceptable tolerance requirements to ensure quality control measures for design parts and assemblies will also be stressed.
2 Credits
Show Description MCH 101 - Intro Manf Proc
This course is designed to introduce the student with an overview of manufacturing to include engineering materials and product attributes, material removal processes, property enhancing and surface processing operations, special processes and assembly technologies, and manufacturing systems.
1 Credits
Show Description MCH 102 - Intro to Manf Materials
This is an introductory course in the study of materials used in the manufacturing industry. Topics include selection and identification of steels, selection and identification of nonferrous metals, mechanical behavior of various plastics, hardening, case hardening, tempering, annealing, normalizing, stress relieving, and the use of the Rockwell and Brinell hardness testers.
2 Credits
Show Description MCH 120 - Bluepr Read & Interp for Mach
This course introduces the fundamental concepts necessary to interpret and make drawings with symbols, various schematics and diagrams, dimensioning techniques, section views, auxiliary views, threads and fasteners, and sketching typical to all shop drawings. Interpretation of specifications and determination of acceptable tolerance requirements to ensure quality control measures for design parts will also be stressed.
3 Credits
Show Description MCH 122 - Introduction to CAM
This course introduces Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) operational basics for both mill and lathe programming using current CAM software. The course includes terminology relevant to PC-based CAD/CAM work, hardware familiarity, system operation and management, folders, file type and structure, menu structure and use, and 3 axis (milling machines) and 2 axis (lathes) tool paths. Emphasis is placed on proper geometric creation, management, relevant utilities, and toolbar and menu functions.
3 Credits
Show Description MCH 125 - Introduction to CNC Lathes
Prereq., MCH 132 . This course provides opportunities for students to develop skills in the safe setup, maintenance, and operation of CNC lathes and related periphery tools and skills. Topics covered include CNC lathe parts, controls, tool holding, tool insert geometry, chip formation, speeds and feeds, operation and process planning, threads, fits, dimensioning and tolerances, surface finish, and the following lathe processes: facing, turning, tapering, drilling, boring, reaming, chamfering, grooving, parting-off, internal and external threading, tapering, and knurling. Graded projects based on chuck, collet, and fixturing will be done. Related periphery tooling, use and care of precision measuring tools, in addition to related math used in the trade, will also be covered.
3 Credits
Show Description MCH 127 - Introduction to CNC Mills
Prereq., MCH 134. This course provides instruction in the setup and operation of CNC mills. Student projects include specialty tooling and multi-axis machining. Students will also gain experience in process control. Topics include specialty tooling, multi-axis machining, process control, and laboratory exercises in part production.
3 Credits
Show Description MCH 129 - Mach Qual Contr and Prec Meas
Students will develop the knowledge to analyze and evaluate the processes and methodology required in an industrial production environment to determine whether quality control standards are being met. Topics include use of non-precision measuring tools, use of precision measuring tools, use of comparison gauges, and analysis of measurements in a CNC environment.
3 Credits
Show Description MCH 130 - Machine Shop
The course content covers a broad range of shop fundamentals in manual and CNC machining. This course includes an emphasis on shop and work area safety. Instruction covers standard shop work, such as measurement, layout, basic hand tools, drills, drill presses, and taps and dies. Use of pedestal grinder will be covered. Work assignments incorporate projects requiring use of the above machines, tooling, and emphasizes safety.
3 Credits
Show Description MCH 132 - Intro to Man Eng Lathes
Prereq., or corereq., MCH 120 and MCH 129. This introduction to Manual Engine Lathes will cover the safety, maintenance and operation of manual engine lathes and related periphery tools and skills. Subjects covered include HSS tool bit grinding and tool bit geometry, chip formation, speeds and feeds, operation and process planning, threads, fits, dimensioning and tolerances, surface finish, and the following lathe processes: facing, turning, tapering, drilling, boring, reaming, chamfering, grooving, parting-off, internal and external threading, tapering, knurling, filing and polishing. Graded projects using between centers and chuck work turning will be done. Related periphery tooling, use and care of precision measuring tools, in addition to related math used in the trade, will also be covered.
4 Credits
Show Description MCH 134 - Introduction to Manual Mills
Prereq.,/coreq., MCH 120 and MCH 129. The student will perform advanced hands-on machine shop operations: set up and operation of manual milling machines, drill presses, band saws, grinders, and other equipment commonly found in manufacturing facilities. The student will use precision measuring tools and methods, utilize blueprints, and perform project process planning. Various types of steel and aluminum are use.
4 Credits
Show Description WRIT 121 - Intro to Technical Writing
Offered every term. Introduction to technical writing situations that integrate text, design, and graphics. Emphasis is on evidence-based, informative writing that uses design and graphics to visually represent logic and organization. Course focuses on writing as a process and includes student self-assessment. Major assignments include a pure technical document, exploration of credibility, and public science writing. Students are expected to write without major faults in grammar or usage and to have basic computer literacy.
3 Credits
Minimum Required Grade: C- 34 Total Credits Required