Frequently Asked Questions
Some answers to help you get your project started
What does the workshop do?
We support both professional and academic staff, PhD students, part IV students etc. by making, modifying, servicing or repairing equipment used in research and teaching throughout the university.
We have an extensive range of capabilities including machining, welding, woodworking and 3D printing.
What is required before I put in my work request?
Drawing and Model Files – Unless the job is very basic, a good quality drawing will go a long way in ensuring that your job is made to spec. This is where you specify material, dimensions, tolerances and required finishing such as paint colour or polish. If you do not have experiance with making a drawing, please just ask and we can help.
Description of Job – This is where you should give an overview of the job and list any special considerations may be useful. This could include details like ‘Include 4x M8 bolts’ or ‘This part attaches to part from job #4322’.
How do I make a CAD drawing – We suggest using Autodesk Inventor or Fusion360. Inventor is available in the Software Center on every staff computer. Youtube is a great resource for tutorials on how to get started. We can assist with making a model or drawing for if required.
How to upload an Inventor file using Pack and Go – Pack and Go collects a file and all of its referenced files and places them into a single package which allows it to be sent to a mail recipient (that’s us). All files that are referenced by a selected file are included in the package unless otherwise specified in the Pack and Go dialogue box – Inventor – Pack and Go Tutorial
How do I make a CAD drawing?
We suggest you try using Autodesk Inventor or Fusion360. Inventor is available in the Software Center on every staff computer. Youtube is a great resource for tutorials on how to get started.
We can assist with making a model or drawing of your work request if required.
What is the process after I submit my job request?
Your request will be checked and you may be contacted if any further information is required for the job. When we are confident we have sufficient information, your job will be approved and added to the job queue.
When your job is at the front of the queue, it will be assigned to one or more workshop staff. They may contact you if any further details or if a site visit is required.
On completion, you will be notified and it will be ready to collect from your specified collection point.
Who can get parts made by the workshop?
All staff and students at the University.
Any department may submit a work request. From libraries to laboratories, we are here to support the entire university.
Students requiring our services will need their supervisor to submit the work request on their behalf.
Can I get access to use the workshop equipment?
Only workshop staff have access to the workshop. The machines in the workshop require a high level of knowledge and skill to operate, which makes this an environment unsuitable for students or other staff.
What materials are available?
We have an extensive range of materials available. If you have a specific requirement that we do not stock, you can supply it or it can be ordered in.
Common materials used are:
Aluminum, steel, stainless steel, wood, MDF, Acrylic plastic, PVC plastic, 3D printed nylon with carbon fibre, PTFE.
If you are unsure which material to specify for your job, please discuss it with us. Selecting the best matrial for the job may impact how long the job takes to complete depending on material availability and what the overall cost will be.
Where can I collect my jobs?
Collection points for completed jobs :
Newmarket – Building 903 – 149
262 Khyber Pass,
Newmarket, Auckland
Grafton – Building 405 – Room 275
5-7 Grafton Road,
Auckland Central, Auckland