Machining
Master precision machining through interactive digital applications and in-person immersions. Learn to design, simulate and visualize machining operations digitally before applying those skills on real machine tools during immersion weekends.
Required In-Person Immersion
This course requires attending two weekend immersion sessions per semester in Austin, TX. During these sessions, you'll apply your digital machining knowledge to real materials and machine tools. Please review the immersion schedule below and ensure you can attend before enrolling.
Machining Digital Projects
Complete these digital projects to develop your machining knowledge and prepare for the in-person immersion sessions. Each project builds upon skills from previous ones and prepares you for hands-on work during the weekend immersions.
Materials & Machining Processes Visualizer
Build an interactive application for exploring material properties and machining processes.
CNC Machining Simulator
Create an interactive simulator for programming and testing CNC machining operations.
Tool Path Optimization Application
Develop an application for optimizing CNC tool paths for efficiency, quality, and tool life.
Advanced Machining Process Simulator
Create a comprehensive simulation environment for advanced machining processes including multi-axis operations and specialized techniques.
Upcoming Immersions
This course requires attendance at two weekend immersion sessions per semester. During these sessions, you'll apply your digital designs to real machine tools. Select the sessions you plan to attend.
September 22-23, 2023
Machining Lab, Austin Campus
Two full days (9am-5pm)
Introduction to machining tools, safety procedures, and basic operations. Students will apply their digital tool path designs to real materials.
November 17-18, 2023
Machining Lab, Austin Campus
Two full days (9am-5pm)
CNC machining operations and advanced techniques. Students will implement their digital CAM programs on actual CNC machines.
March 1-2, 2024
Machining Lab, Austin Campus
Two full days (9am-5pm)
Advanced tooling and fixturing techniques. Students will implement multi-axis machining setups based on their digital designs.
April 26-27, 2024
Machining Lab, Austin Campus
Two full days (9am-5pm)
Complex part production and precision measurement. Students will machine high-precision parts designed in their digital simulations.
Immersion Requirements
For Digital Projects
- • Computer with modern web browser
- • GitHub account for project submissions
- • Basic understanding of web development (HTML, CSS, JavaScript)
- • Camera for recording walkthrough videos
For In-Person Immersions
- • All machine tools and equipment provided on campus
- • Materials for machining projects included
- • Appropriate clothing (closed-toe shoes, no loose items)
- • Personal safety equipment (safety glasses, ear protection)
- • Your completed digital projects (for reference during machining)
Travel & Accommodation
- • Students are responsible for travel to Austin, TX
- • Recommended accommodations list provided
- • Campus location: Ludwitt Machining Center, Austin
Your Progress
Course Instructor
Recent Achievements
Virtual CNC Master
Successfully created complex CNC simulations
Digital Machinist
Developed your first interactive machining application