Through a $1.2 million donation from the Caterpillar Corporation, a brand new, state-of-the-art integrated Caterpillar Integrated Manufacturing Laboratory is being constructed in Turner Hall 115. The laboratory will feature 10 automated systems workstations, with each including an ABB robot, programmable logic controller, a conveyor, a vision system, and a computer. An adjoining classroom will feature equipment facilitating student learning of fluid power, digital and analog electronics, programmable logic, and more.
The ET sequence has some of the latest in technology in its specialized facilities. Students are given firsthand experience with processing metals, plastics, and wood materials, as well as process control with fluid power and robotics. Pictures of equipment available to students in each of the ET labs (plastics technology, automation and metals technology, process control technology, computer-aided design, and materials testing) are available for your viewing below. These labs allow students to get the most out of their education. For an example of a student project, check out the art to part page.
Click on the pictures to see larger images.
ABB Articulating Robot 120 pound payload, state-of-the-art controller |
Integrated Manufacturing Laboratory |
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Instructor lead hands-on lab activities |
Conveyors and ABB Articulating Robot |
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50+ networked computers |
AutoCAD 2006 |
Vericut tool path simulation |
Rapid Prototyping |
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Moldflow injection molding |
Unigraphics |
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Instron Universal Testing Machine - plastics: tensile & flexural |
Tinius Olsen Universal Testing Machine |
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Rockwell Hardness Automated |
Rockwell Hardness Manual |
Tinius Olsen Impact Tester |
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Coordinate Measuring Machine |
Coordinate Measuring Machine |
Haas CNC Machine |
Haas CNC Machine |
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Engine Lathes (10) |
Engine Lathes (10) |
Bidgeport Mills (3) |
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60-ton Engel Hydraulic Clamp |
Student checks mold cavity |
30-ton Engel Hydraulic Clamp |
Prototype Injection Molding |
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Installing mold on machine |
Injection Molds |
Injection Molds |
Prototype Injection Molding |
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Brabender Plasticorder |
Brabender Plasticorder |
Brabender Plasticorder |
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MAAC 30" x 36" cut-sheet thermoformer |
Student loads sheet |
Formed product |
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30 ton Wabash Compression Molder |
Rotational molding |
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