Machine Shop | Physics and Astronomy - College of Liberal Arts and Sciences | The University of Iowa

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The shop is a source for custom part prototyping and machine part problem solving. Its services include machining, fabricating, welding, design and precise measurement of mechanical parts and assemblies.

Email us at [email protected].Location: 116 Van Allen Hall

AutoCAD/CAM, Inventor and MasterCAM are used to design parts, assemblies, mechanical drawings, and create programs to control the CNC machines. CAD is also used to view most parts models or drawings that were made in a different CAD program.

Computer numerical control (CNC) machining is a method for automating control of machine tools using software embedded in a microcomputer attached to the tool.

Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) is a non-traditional method in which material is removed from a workpiece using thermal energy. Much like processes such as laser cutting, EDM does not need mechanical force in the removal process.

Our equipment has 4th and 5th axis machining capabilities.

Haas VF-2YT3-Axis Vertical Machining Center(Soon to be fitted with TRT160 4th/5th Axis Rotary Attachment)

Stainless steel, mild steel, cast iron, alloy steel, carbon steel, bronze, brass, copper, titanium, aluminum, composites, and plastics.

A manufacturing process where the material is removed, using rotating cutting tools, from a workpiece to reach a desired final shape and size.

Milltronics MB-20 Partner3 Axis Quill Head Bed Milling Machine

Travels: X=40”, Y=20”, Z=24”

A manufacturing process where the material is removed using premade tools/electrodes that electrically erode a workpiece to reach a desired final shape and size

Travels: X=15.748”, Y=11.811”, Z1=7.086”, Z2=8.267”

Travels: X=60”, Y=30”, Z=28”

The machine shop collaborates with UI Protostudios a state-of-the-art, rapid-prototyping facility located at MERGE coworking space in downtown Iowa City. Focusing on biomedical and electronics prototyping, Protostudios helps Iowa entrepreneurs create prototypes and advance their research or business.

The shop supports many University of Iowa Department of Physics and Astronomy projects, including space physics, high energy physics, plasma physics, and astronomy, but also collaborates with other departments across campus. External clients include:

Please include a title and detailed description of your project along with an MFK (on-campus clients) and any documentation; .dxf/.stp files are preferred. Also, include your time frame for the project. This request will generate a ticket, which will ensure the job gets scheduled and completed.

Alternatively, the Machine Shop maintains an open-door policy, and you can go in person to request the job. Machine Shop staff will create the ticket for you.

Rates: $86/hour for University of Iowa clients; $100/hour for external clients

Location: 116 Van Allen Hall.

Hours: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday-Friday.

Phone: (319) 467-1991

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