Machining and Fabrication Capabilities

Milling operations are carried out on a Lagun knee mill with 2-axis CNC control. Because of its versatility and quick setup, this vertical milling machine is ideal for prototypes and single part operations. It is common for programming, setup, and a small run of parts to to be completed in a couple hours. The window of operation for this machine is 12" x 36" for 2 axis profile milling and 18" of vertical travel.

Turning operations are done witha Haas TL1 toolroom lathe. This lathe is also ideal for prototypes and small runs of parts. It too can be quickly programmed and setup, making it economical to produce parts in smaller quantities. The capacity of the lathe is limited to 8" diameter and 30" of length. Larger diameters can be accomodated in limited operations.

Drilling operations that are not done with the lathe or mill above can be quickly done on one of two drill presses. Holes up to 3/4" diameter are drilled on a Clausing 16" variable speed drill press. Holes up to 3" diameter can be drilled on a Cinncinatti-Bickford radial drill press.

Material is cut to length on a meticoulsy restored Marvel No 8 verticle tilt frame bandsaw. This saw can cut 18" diameter stock, or 18" x 18" cross sections. The saw can cut miters up to 45 degrees. The saw can also be used for coping beam sections and other difficult cuts often encountered.

Sheet and plate cutting takes place on a flame/plasma table. Straight line cuts up to 72", and shapes optically traced from a drawing up to 24" x 72" can be cut in sheet metal and steel plate up to 2" thick.

Welding is done with one of three machines:

• GTAW (TIG) and SMAW (Stick) operations are done using a 300 amp Miller Aerowave. TIG welds can be done on mild and stainless steel and aluminum (among other metals). The Aerowave has arc shaping capabilities allowing very fine control for aluminum welding needs. Purging and back side gas coverage on stainless steel welds is provided with Weld Hugger and custom made equipment.
• GMAW (MIG) and FCAW (innershield & dual shield) operations are carried out with a Millermatic 251 or a Miller CP200/S54 depending on the requirements of the weld. A spool gun is also available for wire-feed aluminum welding.

Other equipment used for various operations include a belt sander, arbor presses, tubing benders, grinders and a big hammer.