Manufacturing Processes
This class is centered around common processes to manufacture parts in a modern machine shop. It encompasses topics around forging, welding and cutting metal, as well as Geometric Dimensioning and tolerances and various forms of metrology. Most importantly it teaches how to choose the right operation, and the right to machine a part. The lab portion of the course focuses on properly machining and assembling a pneumatic wobbler.
I am taking this course during the Fall 2020 semester and as such have not yet completed it. Which is why I only have screenshots of my work rather than pictures of completed parts. I will continue to update this throughout the semester.
CNC Machining
For this class we used both 3-Axis mills and 2-Axis lathes to produce parts for the wobbler. To machine the parts we would create programs using the machines own software for each part. Rather than writing out G-code as in the CAD/CAM class. This method of conversational programming is much more efficient than writing out individual lines of code.
The wobbler has a pneumatic hook up, a piston, and crank shaft. When supplied with compressed air the piston turns the crank shaft. It is created to evaluate our ability to machine within given tolerances. If all tolerances are closely adhered to, then the wobbler will have the highest possible RPM as close tolerances ensure the best transfer of energy from one part to the next. Loose tolerances could mean anything from a slightly lower RPM to not working at all. Showing the importance of specifying the correct tolerances.
The part to left is a fairly intricate part, machined from round stock. Which requires first machining flat holding surfaces before cutting any of the final features.
Sand Casting/Welding
Normally this class would involve sand casting a base to attach the wobbler assembly to, and more advanced welding techniques. Due to COVID restrictions, these portions of the course are unavailable because of the proximity of the equipment and a lack of welding PPE.
To make up for this the class has instead also made programs for each part using Solidworks CAM software.