Machine Shop

FACILITIES
CAPABILITIES OF MACHINE SHOP

Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Machine

Website
Manual
Torque Chart

Basic Specifications
Travel:
X-Axis – 30 in (762mm)
Y-Axis – 16 in (406mm)
Z-Axis – 20in (508mm)

3D models designed on Creo or Solidworks are to be saved in IGES or Step file format (ex: body parts, boat hull, wings, plane, etc.)
Codes for the machines can be written using Master Cam
2D parts should be saved as IGES, wire frame, datum curves and points (in Creo shut off surfaces)
Typical tolerances: average +/-.0005

Manual Machines

Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM)

Profile Projector

Milling Machine

Lathe Machine

Press Brake

Sheet Metal Cutting Machine

Drill press
Band Saws (Horizontal and Vertical)
Wheel grinders

Frequently Asked Questions

I was in the shop during my introductory course. Am I certified?

Introductory courses do not have very complex projects to prove proficiency and to be able to achieve full certification in the machine shop.

I found some material in the machine shop that would work for my project. Can I use it?

Often, if you find any material lying in the shop, it is somebody's project, therefore, do not use it without first asking and taking permission from the shop staff. Also, ask the staff where to store your project before leaving the shop.

Large Jobs & Major Projects

Large projects need to be approved by the Machine Shop staff
Visitors will be provided with safety glasses at the entry door to the shop and proper footwear must be worn. No sandals or open toed shoes.
EVERYONE MUST WEAR SAFETY GLASSES!
Authorized workers are required to get supervisor approval before work is started.
Workers are required to follow all standard shop rules and practices.
Shop labor is free of charge for students/faculty projects. Material must be supplied.
Non-certified workers are allowed to observe or drop off work, but the supervisor must approve and be present while work is being performed.
Work must NOT be dangerous to the equipment or the personnel.
Individuals requesting work will be required to submit Technical drawing as required.

Procuring Materials & Raw Stock

Raw stock, such as, angles, bars, shapes, sheets, beams, channel, rods, plates, tubing, pipes, stainless, copper, brass, aluminum, galvanized, mild steel, etc are required for the jobs.

Raw Material and Industrial Supply

Small Jobs & Walk-Ins

Everyone MUST wear safety glasses and closed toe shoes!
ONLY certified workers can do walk-in work.
- Authorized workers are required to get shop supervisor approval before work is started.
- Workers are required to follow all standard shop rules and practices.
Non-certified workers cannot work in the shop; they must have a certified worker perform all operations.
- Non-certified workers are allowed to observe or drop off work, but the supervisor must approve and be present while work is being performed.
- Individuals not working are not to be hanging out in work area.
The job must be simple and not require more than 30 minutes of machine or bench time.
Work must NOT be dangerous to the equipment or the personnel.
The supervisor has the right to refuse any walk-in work.
The individual for whom the work is being done is responsible for all damages.
- This individual is also responsible for the worker.
- The basic principle is: be careful!

Forms & Documentation

Shop Manual
- Note: the shop manual contains most shop forms and documents.

Contact Us

Machine Shop
Texas A&M University
Higher Education Center at McAllen
6200 Tres Lagos Blvd
McAllen, Texas 78501
Phone: (956) 271-1365