Choose the right Machining Equipment with The Vermont Manufacturing Collaborative

VMEC’s partner, The Manufacturing Collaborative (Vermont’s own Advanced Manufacturing Center) in Randolph Center, VT, is performing machining operations for Vermont manufacturers. We have recently completed additional training on our DMG Mori 5-Axis machining center and have full-time machinists on staff. The Collaborative’s mission is to help Vermont manufacturers understand the technology, demonstrate the equipment, or machine parts to help with supply chain shortages or critical deadlines. We are also helping to develop tomorrow’s workforce with advanced manufacturing skills.

The Collaborative offers services including design digitization, reverse engineering, advanced machining such as water jet, 5 axis, electrical discharge machining, additive manufacturing (3D printing) of both plastics and metals and advanced inspection and metrology – CT Scanning, hardness, tensile and compression testing and so much more.

With a variety of options, we can select the right machining equipment for the application, time, and quality requirements. If the part has critical interface dimensions and features with tight tolerances, we machine the part on our DMG Mori 5-axis mill. The 5-axis process combines traditional XYZ coordinate movement with a table that rotates and pivots 180 degrees. The technology allows machining on multiple faces with reduced setup and changeover that improves quality and allows faster, tight tolerance machining.

A wire EDM produced sample of the state of Vermont. Wire EDM can cut intricate shapes with close tolerances. The shape of Vermont is designed to slide through the rectangular block in the background.

Before the part can be machined, it must be programmed for the various cutting tools and their speeds and feeds. The approach to toolpath programming is also critical for efficient and high-quality results. Other machining equipment includes waterjet cutting and wire Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM).

We are not trying to compete with VT’s machine shops but rather forge partnerships to share capacity, equipment, or technology. We bid on jobs at standard rates and are not undercutting pricing. While The Manufacturing Collaborative is a non-profit entity, we do charge for services to support the equipment and the staff that run it. We also hire interns to learn the technology and work on real world projects.

Please contact Chris Coulter, VMEC Advanced Manufacturing Technology Advisor, to learn more.