MiniLAB

A satellite space for prototyping in the Advanced Manufacturing & Design Centre (AMDC 504).

The MiniLAB is a studio class space, with laser cutters and hot wire cutters available for use in class.

Epilog Laser Cutters

About

Our Machines

• Epilog Fusion, 2x

Materials

Offcuts and cardboard sheets are freely available.

For access to other materials, show your design files to a technician to discuss material options and determine the best material for your purpose.

Material	Thicknesses	Max Sheet Size (mm)
Cardboard (Corrugated)	2mm	900 x 600
Cardboard (White)	0.5mm, 1mm, 2.5mm	1050 x 700
Cardboard (Grey)	1mm, 2.5mm	1020 x 700
Polypropylene	0.6mm	900 x 665
Plywood (Interior)	3mm, 5mm, 9mm	900 x 600
Acrylic (Clear)	2mm, 3mm	900 x 600

File Preparation

File Type: Adobe Illustrator .ai

Units: mm

Colour Mode: RGB

• Cut Lines:

  • Stroke Weight 0.01mm

  • Stroke Colour R 255 G 0 B 0

• Etch Lines

  • Stroke Weight 0.01mm

  • Stroke Colour R 0 G 0 B 255

• NO Etch Fill

Ensure:

• NO Clipping Masks

• NO Swatch Patterns

Access

INDUCTION REQUIRED

The Induction Process

1. Watch the video series (20 minutes total) introducing the Safe Operating Procedure for the Epilog laser cutters, then pass the associated online quiz.

2. Pass the in-person exam (duration: 45 minutes). In-person exams on the Epilog laser cutters are conducted in class.

Once you have passed the in-person exam, you may use the Epilog laser cutters in the MiniLAB during class.

Start here

The online modules must be repeated yearly to maintain your inducted status.

Hot Wire Foam Cutters

About

A resistive wire is heated to the melting point of blue foam. The foam must be fed at the rate at which it melts. A template is needed to produce smooth, accurate cuts.

Our Machines

• Ironcore Transformers P/L H43 T1/1579, 3x

Access

INDUCTION REQUIRED

The Induction Process

1. Watch the videos (20 minutes total) showing the Safe Operating Procedure for the hot wire foam cutters, then pass the associated online quiz.

2. Pass the in-person exam (duration: 45 minutes). In-person exams on the MiniLAB hot wire foam cutters are conducted in class.

Once you pass the practical exam, you will be able to use the MiniLAB hot wire foam cutters during class.

Start here

The online modules must be repeated yearly to maintain your inducted status.