Proposals

Abstract

We are requesting funding to purchase a modern 3 axis CNC mill for use by students and researchers across the University of Washington. The mill will help to expand the capabilities of the Student Innovation Center (SIC, https://sites.uw.edu/innovation/), a machine shop in the Department of Chemistry that is open to all UW students. While the SIC already has a large 3+2 CNC mill, this machine is often in use and an additional, smaller 3 axis mill will help to provide students with greater access to high precision machining. This access would come in the form of a machine more available for student use, and training for use of the larger 3+2 mill. Additionally, the SIC has four manual mills, two of which can do 2 axis CNC and one that can do 3 axis CNC. However, these machines lack the precision that many projects require and as such are not capable of taking the load off of the 3+2 axis mill. Modern milling is a subtractive cutting process used to machine parts from various stock materials with high accuracy. Milling has widespread utility in engineering, electronics, instrument design, and physical sciences that require specialized or customized equipment. Having access to a CNC mill is critical for students interested in manufacturing and engineering to prepare themselves for their future careers. The proposed machine utilizes Haas Next Generation Control (NGC) like the 3+2 mill at the SIC and machines used in industry.