K-State Research and Extension 21 Central District

4-H AG MECHANICS - WELDING

The Ag Mechanics project starts with an emphasis on welding and smithing, expanding as the project area grows. This project allows 4-H'ers to explore areas of ag mechanics and metallurgy from repairing or repurposing items to the fabrication of new items. The intent for this program is to start with foundational areas and allow 4-H'ers to continue to build on this knowledge, becoming more experienced.

4-H AG MECHANICS - WELDING AT THE EDWARDS COUNTY FAIR

Exhibitors may enter any number of Ag Mechanic - Welding exhibits per class. Exhibits must have been constructed or repaired during the current 4-H year.

  1. Wheeled exhibits must utilize a braking mechanism which prevents the exhibit from freely rolling while on display.
  2. Exhibitors are responsible for providing sufficient braking or "chocks" for trailer exhibits to ensure that the exhibits do not move once positioned. If using a wheel "chocking" mechanism, the two individual blocks should be connected together as a pair of chocks, so they do not become separated. At least one pair of chocks should be placed on each side of the trailer to prevent movement.
  3. For trailer exhibits the tongue of the trailer should have a locking mechanism (e.g. padlock) to prevent the trailer from being moved by unauthorized individuals while being displayed. A key for locking mechanism should be left with the superintendent or Extension Staff.
  4. For exhibits with a downward a swinging part, such as a tailgate, that could pose a fall/striking/crushing hazard, should have a tamper resistant locking mechanism, such as a "zip-tie" or a "cotter-key" through a release pin that would prevent the swinging part from being accidentally released and falling on someone.
  5. Each exhibit must be free-standing or sufficiently supported by an exhibitor supplied support system that is movable and is part of the total demission's and weight of the exhibit as described previously. Exhibit boards should have portable and movable base. No exhibits may be staked to the ground for display.
  6. Top heavy items should be braced or placed in a stand sufficient to prevent it from toppling over while on display.
  7. Exhibits may NOT be bound, affixed, attached to the Edwards County Fair buildings, except by superintendents, Extension staff and Fair Board.
  8. Cuttings surfaces, such as blades, are to have a protective covering over them to prevent injury. The covering should be easy to removed and reinstalled for judging.
  9. Display cases for small exhibits are acceptable and must be easily opened so the item can be removed and examined as part of judging.
  10. If the exhibit is powered by flammable liquids (gas, propane, kerosene, etc.) the fuel tank and liens should be drained and allowed to dry, to avoid spills and potential fires.
  11. Electric powered (battery, corded, solar or alternative energy) should have a primary shutoff or disconnect switch.
  12. Exhibit's name(s) and 4-H club must be tagged or labeled in a prominent location on the display.

WARNING!

Exhibits that include weaponry, of any kind, will be disqualified. Weaponry is defined as any instrument, possession, or creation, physical and/or electrical that is intended to be used to inflict damage and/or harm to individuals, animal life, and/or property.

If a safety violation is noted by the judges, superintendent, or other Extension staff, the exhibitor's exhibit, at the judge's discretion, will receive a deduction in ribbon placement or a participation ribbon.

Painting of Exhibits

  • Painting or spot painting is NOT allowed on projects after arrival on fairgrounds. If wet paint is detected by judges or superintendents, one ribbon placing will be deducted.
  • Repair projects having adequate original finish need not be repainted.

AG MECHANICS - WELDING INFORMATION PACKETS

Each exhibit, except for display boards, must include ag Ag Mechanics - Welding Information packet. Entry of just a packet without accompanying exhibit is not a sufficient exhibit.

Each exhibitor is required to complete the "4-H Ag Mechanics - Welding Exhibit Information Form" for each exhibit available at the 21 Central District Extension Office or online by clicking here .

  • This form must be attached to the outside of a 10" x 13" manila envelope.
  • Do NOT tie the envelope to the exhibit.
  • All revisions of all forms previously released for the division dated prior to the current year are void for use and new forms must be obtained and used that are dated by the State 4-H Office for the current year.

Exhibit Information Packet Contents

Each exhibit information packet should include the following items:

  1. Bill of materials for the project with associated costs (scrap items used may be listed as having a $0.00 cost).
  2. One to five pages of photos showing work on the exhibit, preferably from a beginning state to final or completed state.
  3. If appropriate, schematics or working drawings relating to the creating or repair, this is not required for display boards.
  4. If appropriate, operating instructions.

AG MECHANICS - WELDING CLASSES

  • Introductory - Level 1 (1-3 years experience)
    • This level is designed for youth with little to no exposure in the project area so they can gain an understanding of basic principles and methods in the given area.
  • Experienced - Level 2 (4-6 years experience)
    • This level is designed for youth with some experience in the project area allowing them to expand on common principles and methods in the given area.
  • Advanced - Level 3 (7-9 years experience)
    • This level is designed for youth with vast experience in the project area allowing them to master common principles and methods and expand on advanced techniques in the given area.
  • Master - Level 4 (10 or more years experience)
    • This level is designed for youth with substantial experience in the project area, allowing them to master advanced techniques in the given area.