How has the Science Technology Centre (STC) helped you on a particular project?
It’s hard to pick out one particular project since STC has completed so many for the Department of Electronics (over 50 jobs in the last 15 years alone), ranging from minor shield modifications to more complex custom made apparatus and vacuum chambers.
Safety Bracket
One example where STC went above and beyond was several years ago when we needed to have custom made safety brackets designed and manufactured for two of our hydraulically lifted vacuum chamber lids. These lids are several hundred pounds each, and we were required to install safety devices in case of hydraulic failure. Having no idea as to the best way to go about doing this, we contacted STC, and one of their technicians was able to come into our cleanroom to evaluate our situation and recommend a suitable design.
Our Microfabrication Facilities here in the Minto Building at Carleton has over 3600 square feet of cleanroom space, with close to 100 pieces of specialized semiconductor processing equipment. Maintaining and retrofitting such a wide variety of vacuum and electromechanical systems requires replacement and modification of many components. Often replacement parts are out of production, or very expensive to order. Having STC here at Carleton allows us to get professional work done at a reasonable cost and with good turnaround, allowing us to keep this equipment in operation. There have been many times when STC has completed rush jobs for us to get back up and running quickly during important deadline periods.
 Various components manufactured by STC for the Department of Electronics |
With my limited time and CAD drawing experience, trying to get custom made parts manufactured at any other shop would be extremely difficult. Often I’ll just have a rough idea and a hand drawn sketch for a custom fixture or project.
With STC I can simply schedule a meeting with Steve or Graham, and with their knowledge and experience they can quickly help determine the best (and most cost effective) design and materials for my project, and promptly turn my idea into reality.
 Various components manufactured by STC for the Department of Electronics |
STC has been instrumental in supporting our facility over the years, and I have nothing but praise for their level of professionalism and expertise.