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CNC Machine
This machine mills and drills. The team creates a program that creates the right cuts and holes in metal, wood, and plastic parts. The machine was affectionately named "Helga." Laser Cutter
This state-of-the-art machine uses a 30-watt laser to cut and etch. This machine is used to shape and engrave their parts. To use the laser cutter the team must create vector or bitmap art and "print" the designto the laser printer. They focus the laser, and center it over their material, and press go. The machine will be used to raise funds. For a low cost students may laser-etch their name into their phone. Drill Press
A simpler machine than the two above, the drill press allows for perfect vertical holeswhen using the laser cutter or CNC machine is overkill or impractical. The device has a laser guide to help position the part to be drilled. Grinder
Sharp edges are an inevitable part of cutting metal. However, these edges can be dangerous to team members, and could cause injury, or (much more unlikely) death. The grinder allows the team to grind down sharp edges. Rounded edges are also possible to carve with the grinder. When cutting metal one might see white sparks, as in the picture above. While both frightening and exciting, these sparks are not a danger to the user. |
All machines are used with appropriate safety equipment, including built in overrides,safety switches, and emergency stop buttons, as well as safety glasses. 
