VCU School of Engineering opens machine shop for students to build test models

By Mike Frontiero
VCU School of Education

Virginia Commonwealth University engineering students and Philip Morris USA officials have unveiled the VCU School of Engineering's new machine shop. The metal and nonmetal fabrication equipment will allow students to build working models of their designs without leaving the School of Engineering.

Mechanical engineering students learn how machines work and how to design and fabricate different components of those machines. Computer aided design and computer aided manufacturing are important components of the mechanical engineering curriculum. "Together with rapid prototyping machines, the new machine shop will help the students apply and practice what they learn in the classroom," said Dr. Robert J. Mattauch, dean of the School. "It will also better prepare them for the marketplace after graduation with both a thorough understanding of the basics combined with more sophisticated computer aided tools as well."

The gift of eight heavy-duty machines from Philip Morris USA facilities in the Richmond area includes an engine lathe, three vertical milling machines, vertical bandsaw, two drill presses and a surface grinder. They have been installed in the school's High Bay lab and can be used for sophisticated fabrication and milling of metal and other materials.

Several students used the equipment to build their projects for the School's Senior Design Showcase 2004. Mechanical Engineering senior Leah Lovell used a drill press and bandsaw to build a Plexiglas holder for her project. "It was very helpful for the equipment to be located here in the School of Engineering," she said. "I didn't have to go looking for these machines." Others designed and developed electronically controlled planes to fly in a national competition in Florida. "The applications that emanate from a machine shop are endless," said Dr. Mohamed Gad-el-Hak, chair of the Department of Mechanical Engineering.

"We have a good relationship with VCU and want engineering students to have all the skills they need to work for companies like ours," said Philip Morris USA Vice President of Product Development and Technology Hector Alonso, who also is a member of the VCU Mechanical Engineering Industrial Advisory Board. Philip Morris USA also provides internships and scholarships to students selected by the engineering school.

More equipment is on the way. Later this year, Philip Morris will give the School a welding system with accessories, cutoff saw, pipe cutter and threader, grinders, horizontal band saw, welding machine, tool boxes and storage cabinets, shop vacuum, arbor presses, welding curtains, granite table with stand, work benches, pedestal fans and a belt sander.

"This is yet another win for VCU engineering," said Mattauch.