Frequently Asked Questions

• My PI needs me to manufacture a part for my research group. Can I use ESDC facilities?
• Are you in the College of Engineering? If yes, then we have a number of options for you! Mechanical engineering students can take EME 50, biomedical engineering students can take BIM 110, and all other engineering students and staff can take the the Machine Safety Orientation (MSO) course in order to obtain shop privileges.
• I work in another department at UC Davis, can I have the ESDC make a part?
• Yes! We offer recharge work for other departments at a competitive rate. Send us an email to esdc@ucdavis.edu and we can schedule a meeting!
• How can I sign up for the Machine Safety Orientation class?
• Please contact full time staff to sign up for the next available Machine Safety Orientation class.
• What are your open lab hours?
• Check out our calendar tab on our website or our white board next to the ESDC’s staircase.
• Do you have 3D printing service?
• Yes! For those in the College of Engineering we have Ultimaker 2 Extended 3D printers up and running. Come in and ask David about training!
• I am interested in working at the ESDC. Where do I apply?
• Look for posted signs on the whiteboards or kindly ask our full time staff about open positions.
• Does the ESDC supply material for students?
• No, we do not supply students with material.
• What about material for 3D printing?
• We have set up a co-op system for the 3D printers – if you bring in one 1000g spool of material, you can use up to 1000g of any material in the co-op. Ask a staff member to find out what materials are in demand.
• Can I store my material in the ESDC?
• Ask our staff to see if we have space for your material.
• How do I join a student project team?
• Check out our student team tabs and click on your interested team name which will lead you to their personal website and contact information.
• How do I receive welding and wood shop certification?
• You must go undergo training with the full time staff for welding. Please e-mail or talk to our full time staff to make an appointment. Ask general staff for wood shop certification.
• Do I have to bring my own cutters/tooling?
• We have generally used cutters/tooling with various sizes for your use. Special cutters are to be purchased on your own.
• What software does the ESDC have available?
• Our Windows computers have SolidWorks and Esprit. Our Bridgeport mills only read Esprit m-files, so other file types can damage the Bridgeport’s digital monitors.
• Can I check out tools?
• No, you can bring your own tools or use the ESDC's but they cannot leave the shop.
• Can I bring chemicals into the shop?
• Chemicals must be approved by our full time staff before brought into the ESDC.
• Do I need to have my own safety glasses?
• You must bring your own personal safety glasses (marked with EZ87+).