The pneumatic nail gun is a nail gun powered by compressed air. A nail gun is often used in Digital Fabrication when affixing a workpiece to a CNC router's wasteboard. Several pneumatic brad and trim nailers are also available in the Wood Shop.
Most pneumatic nailers and staplers are very similar. Buttons, catches, and knobs may be in slightly different locations or press in different ways but the overall function is nearly identical and some poking and prodding will help you figure it out.
Safety glasses must be worn when operating the pneumatic nail gun.
Long hair, jewelry, and loose clothing must be tied back.
Sturdy, close-toed shoes must be worn in Digital Fabrication and the Wood Shop at all times.
Less than 10 minutes.
In Digital Fabrication, they are in a labled tool chest drawer.
In the Wood Shop, they are on the wall by the dust collection closet.
Use the magazine release button to slide the magazine open.
Load nails or staples. Staples may load from the bottom rather than the side.
In Digital Fabrication, only use nylon nails to avoid damage to the cutter heads.
Close the magazine.
Pull down air hose from overhead.
Attach the air hose to the nailer by pulling back the outer ring of the coupler and pushing the coupler onto the the fitting of the pneumatic nail gun.
Make sure the nailer is straight up and down over the workpiece.
Do not place hands over the air exhaust at the top or rear of pneumatic nailer.
Pulling the trigger will not release a nail until the contact tip of the nailer is pressed flush against a surface.
¶ Digital Fabrication & securing workpieces
Use a sufficient quantity of nylon nails to secure the workpiece to the wasteboard in the bed of the machine. One nail every 6 to 10 inches depending on material size typically works.
Avoid placing nails in the way of any toolpaths.
Remove the pneumatic nail gun from the air hose by pulling back the outer ring of the coupler and removing the fitting.
Return the pneumatic nailer to its home.