The Orthopedic Biomechanics Laboratory machine shop supports design and fabrication of custom mechanical testing fixtures, implant and instrument prototypes, and tissue testing instruments used in macroscopic-level testing of bones, joints, and orthopedic implants.

Mill

Haas Mini Mill CNC Vertical Milling Machine

  • Used for precision machining of metals and plastics for custom fixtures, prototype components, and specialized instruments. The lab’s Mini Mill has 16" × 14" × 15" (X–Y–Z) travels, a 10-station automatic tool changer, and a 40-taper, 8000-RPM spindle, providing full 3-axis CNC machining capability in a compact footprint. Typical operations include contouring, pocketing, drilling, and rigid tapping directly from CAD/CAM toolpaths for rapid iteration from design to finished part.
Mill

Video of mill running

Shop tool view

Additional Hand Tools

  • DAKE F-16 vertical band saw (2 hp, 16-inch throat, variable speed) – for rough stock cutting and contouring of metals and polymers.
  • Evolution Metal Cutting Chop Saw – alternative rough metal cutting saw that brings larger metal or plastic pieces to the correct length before machining
  • Craftsman 13-inch drill press (1/3 hp, 5-speed) – for conventional drilling and light fabrication tasks.
  • 3 Ton Arbor Press – used for installing press fit components, broaching keyways, and light duty metal forming.
Lathe

HAAS HPCL Precision CNC Lathe

  • Complements the CNC mill by supporting high-precision turning of cylindrical metal and plastic components. The HPCL is used to produce custom support rods, pins, bushings, and threaded components for experimental fixtures and instruments. CNC control allows consistent production of matched sets of parts, fine adjustment of fits and tolerances, and integration with the mill (e.g., turned parts that undergo secondary milling operations).