The Composites Lab helps students post-process cured composites projects in a safe environment
The new Composites Lab enables students to post-process their cured composites projects safely and effectively. The lab is located in the Engineering Centers Building (ECB) Room 1063C, inside of the Phil Myers Automotive Center.
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Hours & Access
The composites lab is available for student use by reservation only, between 8am-9pm 7 days/week. Schedule reservations here, up to 7 consecutive days at a time.
Students must have at least a CoE Red Permit before completing the Composites Lab Training on Canvas and attending our hands-on seminar before using the lab (see “Training” below).
Capabilities & Equipment
This facility is set up for students to safely perform post-processing procedures on cured composites. Because composites, like cured carbon fiber, can produce very fine particulate matter when abrasive processes are performed, the safest way to perform these operations is to utilize an industrial downdraft table. The downdraft table uses a vacuum and filtration system to suction particulate matter away from the operator and leave very little particulate matter in the air. Efficacy is further improved by the use of a snorkel, which further aids in suctioning particulate matter away from the operator.
Equipment & Tools available for use:
- Diversitech Industrial Downdraft Table, fitted with snorkel
- Explosion-proof vacuum
- Wide variety of pneumatic shaping and cutting tools
Training
All students who wish to use the composites lab must:
- Be up-to-date on their biannual Materials Fee for the D+I Labs
- Possess at least a Red Permit
- Complete the online Composites Lab Training, which is self-paced and shouldn’t take more than 30-45 minutes
- (NEW Fall 2022) Register for and attend a 60-90 min seminar, which will cover best practices and give you hands-on experience with the lab equipment
Safety is our top priority, and we will ensure that all students using the composites lab have all the training and personal protective equipment necessary to use the lab safely and effectively.
Contact di-composites@engr.wisc.edu with any questions.
Contact
Please contact us at di-composites@engr.wisc.edu and we’ll be happy to answer any questions you have.