Coaster Project Overview

To become proficient and demonstrate my knowledge on a HAAS 3-axis CNC Mill, each of us students completed the HAAS Basic Lathe Operator certification exam through certified proctors at the University.

After cutting the needed aluminum stock to specified length, the operator (myself) was responsible for fixing the stock in custom fixture, identifying all components involved in CNC operation needed in certification. The pre-loaded CAM program was loaded up, and I ran the beginning of it at 25% rapid to ensure proper fixture tightness had been achieved. Once confident, the program was resumed at full speed and the certification continued.

The end product, though beautiful, isn’t the most functional coaster in the world. We won’t get caught up in coaster logistics, though, as the main purpose was to demonstrate CNC Operator ability.

Lessons Learned (and general advise)

There are many standardized components across lathing and milling operations, and becoming familiar with them sooner than later is greatly beneficial. Having general knowledge of what you’ll be working with on a daily basis will get you far

– The HAAS machine and panel is much more intimidating at first glance than it actually is. Each part of the key pad is carefully labeled and thought out in placement, becoming quickly intuitive after basic use

– Get familiar with EVERY tool and operation you’re going to be working with. This helps understand where and when failures can happen

– Learning G-CODE and CAM programming is the next big step in CNC machining, and learning it can save you massive amounts of time in the long term

IF YOU’RE AN INCOMING ENGINEERING STUDENT: TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THESE INCREDIBLE MACHINES AND THEIR CAPABILITIES!