Laser Cutters

The MakerSpace has three laser cutters, a large one (a CTR TMX12), a Trotec Speedy 300 (shown above) and a Snapmaker.  They each have different abilities and interfaces.  We have custom written manuals for each and training is available for any members.  These are versatile tools that members make good use of.

3D printers

We have three 3D printers in the space at the moment an Ender 5, an Ender 6 and an AnyCubic.  They each have a user friendly web interface using OctoPrint. and are able to create objects to the user’s specs using a variety of filaments.

Metalwork tools

Our metalwork area has a full sized lathe and 4 axis milling machine (shown above).  Extensive training is available for members and custom manuals and example work pieces are on the shared files.

Woodwork Tools

The woodworking area has a range of tools including a lathe, band-saw and scroll saws.  As with all our tools there is training available.

Internal website and shared files

The internal network hosts a private web site that links to all the facilities, lists the tools and accesses their manuals.  There is also a set of more than 20,000 shared files for members including past projects, howto videos and complete training courses.

Arduino, Raspberry Pi, AI, computer development area

We have a very active group interested in AI (Artificial Intelligence), Image recognition and Voice processing. Use of Raspberry Pi and Arduino devices can be found throughout the Makerspace; implementing intelligent camera systems, driving routers, montoring 3D printing etc. Linux and Windows computers are networked to broadband internet. WiFi is aavailable throughout the building.

Electronic workstations

We have  wireless equipment, breadboards, soldering stations etc. for electronic development.

X-Carve CNC Carving Machine

X-Carve is an open source milling machine from Inventables that powers a De-Walt 611 router with a ¼ inch collet in three orthogonal directions. It can mill a volume of 700mm x 700mm x 65mm. It is rigid enough to carve 3D profiles in plastic, wood and potentially aluminium. Stepper motors driving the router are powered by an Arduino micro-controller with a Grbl shield.

The X-Carve has a strong maker community that provide regular suggestions for upgrades. This machine has a laser upgrade consisting of a 2.8W laser with a constant current driver. This allows the X-carve to engrave wood, leather, acrylics, and many other materials. It can cut thin and non-dense woods like Balsa, Basswood, thin plywood, foam and plastics.

We have a large range of oscilloscopes, power supplies, signal generators etc.

General Tools

We have various Heavy duty rotary saws, Grindstones, Power drills, Variable speed bench Scroll Saw, Drill sharpening equipment. Plus usual maker equipment such as hammers, hand saws, mitre saws, screwdrivers, allen keys, spanners etc.

Photographic Studio

We have a photographic studio with a range of backdrops used by an enthusiastic group of photographers

Sewing Machine & Crafts

We have an industrial sewing machine, and overlocker and a domestic sewing machine.  There are also a range of crafting kits for crafts like leatherwork, papercraft and felting

Photographic darkroom

We are in the process of building a well equipped photographic studio with lighting, backdrops, scattering surfaces, wet darkroom etc.

Foison C24 Vinyl Cutter

The vinyl cutter is used to cut self-adhesive designs of various patterns (typically text and logos) to be stuck on to a workpiece. For more advanced usage it could also be used to make stencils for chemical processes or paint. This capable desktop plotter is built to handle all basic vinyl graphics applications. It will cut any vinyl product you need from 60micron cast to tough reflective films and even sandblast rubber. Like the most popular vinyl cutters, It has a top speed of 400mm per second. And its integrated LCD control panel makes signmaking easy with its push button interface.

Discussion area

Pottery

We currently have a small potters wheel