- Custom modular fixture plate used for several parts. Notice how the fixture is actually split into three identical modular plates. The plates themselves are machined separately first, then stacked next to each other for however many are necessary based on the final part required, and then a custom fixture program is run on top of the joined plates for the part in question. In this instance, several drilled and tapped holes are added to the fixture as well as an engraved outline to help with initial blank positioning, and finally two X adjustable work holding clamps. This method facilitates the reuse of fixtures for multiple parts.
"Cool" pictures
- Andrew Robinson
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"Cool" pictures
Unfortunately, I don't get that many chances to share our work with you guys due to NDA and other legal shenanigans, but I finally have some "cool" fusor only related pictures that they will let me share. Machining pictures to follow. Enjoy!
I can wire anything directly into anything! I'm the professor!
- Andrew Robinson
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Re: "Cool" pictures
More pictures now showing the machining of the aluminum support structures and some initial installation tests.
I can wire anything directly into anything! I'm the professor!
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Re: "Cool" pictures
What kind of VMC do you have there?
For flat stuff like this I like this stuff, but whatever you are sticking down has to be able to handle 200F:
https://www.miteebite.com/products/mitee-grip/
For flat stuff like this I like this stuff, but whatever you are sticking down has to be able to handle 200F:
https://www.miteebite.com/products/mitee-grip/
- Andrew Robinson
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Re: "Cool" pictures
I assume by VMC, you are referring to the mill?
x1 HAAS SMM
x6 HAAS VF2
x1 HAAS VF3
x1 HAAS UMC-750
Here are a few old posts with pics
viewtopic.php?f=12&t=11190&hilit=HAAS&start=10#p74036
viewtopic.php?f=18&t=9905&hilit=+HAAS#p66590
These particular jobs were done on one of the older VF2's. Never used anything sticky before, but I have experimented with vacuum tables. Lots of trouble and can be prone to error and slippage. Bolted fixtures have always been the best solution for me. Don't usually have to worry about it though as we don't make a ton of really big parts. Most stuff fits nicely in a traditional Kurt vise.
x1 HAAS SMM
x6 HAAS VF2
x1 HAAS VF3
x1 HAAS UMC-750
Here are a few old posts with pics
viewtopic.php?f=12&t=11190&hilit=HAAS&start=10#p74036
viewtopic.php?f=18&t=9905&hilit=+HAAS#p66590
These particular jobs were done on one of the older VF2's. Never used anything sticky before, but I have experimented with vacuum tables. Lots of trouble and can be prone to error and slippage. Bolted fixtures have always been the best solution for me. Don't usually have to worry about it though as we don't make a ton of really big parts. Most stuff fits nicely in a traditional Kurt vise.
I can wire anything directly into anything! I'm the professor!
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Re: "Cool" pictures
Andrew,
Very cool indeed! Can you share the details of your custom LN2 cold trap?
Bruce
Very cool indeed! Can you share the details of your custom LN2 cold trap?
Bruce
- Andrew Robinson
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Re: "Cool" pictures
Hi Bruce,
I'll see what I can do to get some additional pictures and add a few explanations. We had to change around the design quite a bit from the original version as we were concerned about pumping efficiency. Even though everyone on the team is having a blast getting involved with vacuum tech, that is one area none of my engineers (myself included) had much experience in. As a result, we are very much so learning as we go. The trap is a dual purpose trap and baffle for the diff pump. Currently the baffle is out of the lab while we make some changes, but as soon as I get a chance, I'll collect everything in one spot and take some pictures.
Cheers,
Andrew
I'll see what I can do to get some additional pictures and add a few explanations. We had to change around the design quite a bit from the original version as we were concerned about pumping efficiency. Even though everyone on the team is having a blast getting involved with vacuum tech, that is one area none of my engineers (myself included) had much experience in. As a result, we are very much so learning as we go. The trap is a dual purpose trap and baffle for the diff pump. Currently the baffle is out of the lab while we make some changes, but as soon as I get a chance, I'll collect everything in one spot and take some pictures.
Cheers,
Andrew
I can wire anything directly into anything! I'm the professor!