Mechanical Engineering

Composites Laboratory - Equipment

Major Equipment:

Autoclave

An autoclave is a pressurized chamber used to process composite parts and materials by creating a controllable environment. The outer body of the pressure vessel is made of high grade carbon steel confirming to ASME Pressure Vessel standards. Internally, the vessel is lined with layers of mineral wool insulation and held in place with aluminized steel sheet metal. Vacuum lines and transducers are present on either sides of the chamber wall. There is a centralized vacuum system in Keck Composites Laboratory which provides vacuum lines to autoclave and oven.

Technical Specifications

  • Dimensions (internal): 1.2m (diameter) x 3m (length) (4’ x 10’)
  • Max operational pressure: 9bar (130 psi)
  • Max operational temperature: 260C (500 F)

autoclave-front   autoclave-leftside   autoclave-back

 

Oven

Technical Specifications

  • Dimensions (internal): 0.9m (width) x 1.8m (depth) (3’ x 6’)
  • Maximum operating temperature: 260C (500 F)
  • Rack loading system (5 racks)

oven-front    oven

 

Laser Cutter

Dimensions (internal): 40cm x 30cm x 5cm (16" x 12" x 2")

laser cutter-front  

 

CNC router (3D):

  • Dimensions (machine bed): 1.8m x 1.8m (6’ x 6’)
  • Used for making (foam) molds for composite layups

 

Machining Tools

  • Milling
  • Band Saw
  • Drill Press