The LST 393 museum recently acquired a deck gun that was in need of restoration. This historical artifact was once used to defend troops and supplies in transit during World War II. However, time and exposure to the elements took a toll on the deck gun’s appearance and structure. This is where the Lakeshore Fab Lab and Muskegon Community College’s (MCC) welding program came in to help.
The coalition of Lakeshore Fab Lab and MCC’s welding program was formed to help restore the deck gun to its original condition. The Fab Lab- a technologically advanced space that provides resources for engineering, design and fabrication -and MCC - a leading welding program that emphasizes hands-on education with cutting-edge technology- provided a unique blend of expertise that was necessary for this project.
The LST 393 was used for transport during World War II and is a historical artifact in itself. It is currently docked at the Muskegon Lake in Michigan and functions as a museum. The museum reached out to Lakeshore Fab Lab and MCC for help with the newly acquired deck gun restoration project.
The goal of the project was to restore the deck gun to its original form while incorporating modern technology for safety and longevity purposes. This type of project required the use of modern welding technology and skilled welders to weld the joints of the deck gun. MCC’s welding program provided the welders while Lakeshore Fab Lab provided the technology and equipment necessary for this project.
The first step was to create a 3D model of the deck gun using CAD (computer-aided design) software. This provided an accurate model that would guide the fabrication process. Once the model was created, the parts were fabricated using state-of-the-art CNC (computer numerically controlled) machines provided by Lakeshore Fab Lab.
Once the parts were fabricated, MCC’s welding program took over the project. The skilled welders used MIG (metal inert gas) and TIG (tungsten inert gas) welding techniques to weld the joints of the deck gun. These techniques required a high level of skill and precision, ensuring that the deck gun would be structurally sound and ready for use.
In addition to welding, the deck gun required a new paint job as the original paint had faded with time. The Fab Lab provided a state-of-the-art paint booth and assistance with paint selection. The result was an impeccable paint job that restored the deck gun to its former glory.
The modern technology used in the restoration project also ensured the deck gun’s longevity. The deck gun was coated with a special sealant that will protect it from rust and further weathering.
Overall, the coalition between Lakeshore Fab Lab and MCC’s welding program was highly successful. The restoration project restored the deck gun to its original condition while incorporating modern technology for longevity and safety. The project also highlighted the importance of bridging the gap between historical artifacts and modern technology.
The restoration project demonstrates the power of collaboration between different entities with unique skill sets. Lakeshore Fab Lab and MCC’s welding program exemplified their commitment to innovation, education, and preservation. The restored deck gun is a testament to their hard work and dedication. The deck gun is now a proud exhibit at the LST 393 museum and is ready to inspire and educate visitors on the history of World War II.
In conclusion, the LST 393 deck gun restoration project is a perfect example of how modern technology and traditional craftsmanship can work together to restore historical artifacts. The coalition of Lakeshore Fab Lab and MCC’s welding program has provided a new life to an iconic World War II artifact, making it a valuable addition to the museum’s collection.
Keywords: LST 393 museum, deck gun, restoration project, Lakeshore Fab Lab, Muskegon Community College’s welding program, welding, CNC machine, MIG, TIG, paint booth, collaboration, innovation, education, preservation.