External users: registration to be carried out only through I-STEM portal
Additional information about sample and analysis details should be filled in the pdf form provided in the I-STEM portal under “DOWNLOAD CSRF”
Internal users (IITB): registration to be carried out only through DRONA portal
Additional information about sample and analysis details should be filled in the pdf form provided here.
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Category
- Fabrication and Processing » Microfabrication
Booking Details
Facility Management Team and Location
Facility Features, Working Principle and Specifications
Facility Description
Facility Features
The CNC Milling Machine Facility at [Department/Institute] offers the following key features:
- High-precision, computer-controlled machining to produce functional prototypes and research components in metals, polymers and composites.
- Multi-axis milling capability enables the machining of complex part geometries, contours, slots, and pockets in a single setup.
- Integrated CAD/CAM workflow: users can import design files, generate tool paths and execute machining in a streamlined process.
- Robust machine structure with high rigidity, vibration damping and automated tool changer for consistency and repeatability.
- Extended work-volume capacity for a wide range of part sizes, from small bespoke components to larger research fixtures.
- Support for various operations, including face milling, contour milling, slotting, drilling and tapping, enabling versatility in component fabrication.
- Experienced technical staff and usage guidelines to assist faculty, students and external collaborators in job setup, process planning and quality assurance.
Working Principle
The CNC milling machine operates on the principle of precision subtractive manufacturing, where material is removed from a solid workpiece using a rotating cutting tool, under computer control.
Key steps in the working sequence:
- A CAD model of the desired part is created and converted into machine instructions (G-code) via CAM software. MakerVerse+2geomiq.com+2
- The workpiece is securely fixed to the machine table, and the appropriate tool is mounted in the spindle.
- The CNC control system interprets the program and precisely moves the spindle and/or work-table along multiple axes (typically X, Y, Z and possibly additional rotary/tilt axes) to execute the machining operations.
- Material removal is performed by the rotating cutting tool, which engages the workpiece and removes chips according to the pre-programmed path until the final geometry is achieved.
- Throughout machining, auxiliary systems such as coolant/air blast, tool monitoring and work-holding feedback ensure process stability, accuracy and surface quality.
- After machining, post-processing may include deburring, polishing, heat treatment or surface finishing to meet final part specifications.
Because of its automated, repeatable nature, the CNC milling machine facility is well-suited for precision research components, engineering prototypes, academic lab setups and small-batch production.
Specifications
Here are typical specifications for the CNC milling machine(s) in the facility.
- Machine Type: CNC Vertical/Horizontal Milling Centre
- Work Volume / Table Size: e.g., X = 700 mm, Y = 500 mm, Z = 500 mm
- Spindle Speed: e.g., 12,000 rpm
- Tool Changer Capacity: e.g., 24 tools
- Axes Configuration: 3-axis (X, Y, Z) (or if higher: 4-axis/5-axis capable)
- Rapid Feed Rates: e.g., X/Y = 40 m/min, Z = 30 m/min
- Accuracy / Repeatability: e.g., ± 0.005 mm
- Drive System: Ball-screw / servo-motors with automatic compensation
- Materials Supported: Aluminium, Stainless Steel, Mild Steel, Brass, Engineering Plastics & Composites
- Control System: Industry-standard CNC controller (e.g., FANUC/Siemens/MITSUBISHI)
- Auxiliary Features: Automatic coolant system, mist/air blow-off, chip conveyor, tool length measurement, and tool breakage detection.
Sample Preparation, User Instructions and Precautionary Measures
- Sample material: Specify alloy (e.g., Al 6061-T6, SS 304), heat treatment state, and initial stock size (e.g., Ø50 mm × 300 mm long).
- Geometric tolerance: e.g., diameter tolerance ±0.02 mm, surface finish Ra-0.8 µm.
- Required quantity: single piece/batch of 5 / batch of 20, etc.
- Please provide a CAD file in IGES/STEP format, and any drawings or process notes needed for gripping, orientation, and final inspection.
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Charges for Analytical Services in Different Categories
Applications
- Manufacturing of high-precision flanges, housings, die components, research probes, and test apparatus.
- Fabrication of complex geometry parts for aerospace, automotive, energy, instrumentation, robotics and prototype validation.
- Custom jigs and fixtures for experimental setups (e.g., flow rigs, structural test rigs, high‐speed camera mounts).
Sample Details
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