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Design and Fabrication Services

Instrument design, expert machining and logistical field support.

Scientific programs from all over the world rely on our Design and Fabrication Services (DFS) to create innovative engineering solutions and highest quality machining and repair services of new and existing highly-specialized instrumentation used on every imaginable platform.

Innovative Solutions for Complex and Challenging Instrumentation Requirements

DFS provides an unmatched set of skills and capabilities uniquely tailored to meet the development needs and requirements of the atmospheric research community. Through closely interacting with scientists and other engineers across our community, DFS utilizes the latest in solid modeling and computer aided design software to achieve innovative solutions to complex and challenging instrumentation requirements.

Available Services

  • Machine Shop Support
  • CNC and CAD/CAM Tools
  • Mechanical Design
  • Finite Element Analysis Tools
  • Fluid Dynamics and Flow Modeling

Mechanical Design

dfs9.jpgDFS’s Mechanical Design Group takes concepts, sometimes drawn on paper napkins, and converts them into advanced instruments, pods, inlets, or probes. Our ability to provide advanced fluid and finite element modeling allows us to design some of the the most advanced instrumentation available to atmospheric researchers. Our designers often participate in project efforts from the development phase to ensure that the instrumentation used will gather the most accurate data possible.

Machine Shop

The Machine Shop performs precision machining, welding, sheet-metal work, assembly and repair service, as well as produces specialized mechanical equipment and component fabrication for scientists and engineers in development and operations of field program activities. We utilize the most advanced computer aided machining software in concert with up-to-date computer controlled machine tools to produce unique components and systems that are a hallmark of EOL’s and NCAR’s prowess in the atmospheric sciences. The components we can produce range from heavy parts for radar pedestals to tapered aircraft inlets to light-weight precise optical mountings for aircraft or satellite instruments.

Logistics

Setting up the S-Pol Radar for TIMREXThe Logistics Group provides support for field programs and site surveys, including packing and shipping of equipment and components to field programs, setting up equipment at field sites, and maintenance of all logistics equipment (trucks, trailers, forklifts, cranes, etc).

Document Actions
Field Projects
Staff Profile

José Meitín

José Meitín As a field project coordinator, it's not enough for José Meitín to understand complex scientific concepts and know how to use cutting-edge instruments. He also needs a flair for foreign diplomacy, proficiency in several languages, and a capacity for great patience when dealing with customs officials.

Britt Stephens

Britt Stephens became fascinated with Earth sciences during high school field trips in northeastern Oregon, where he grew up. When he started college at Harvard University, he was determined to branch out into new subjects.

Henry Boynton

Henry Boynton can tell you what the atmosphere looks like at 51,000 feet above Earth's surface, a good 15,000 feet higher than most commercial airplanes venture. "The biggest thing you notice is that the sky is a lot bluer," he observes.

 

Marcel Verstraete

When Marcel Verstraete came to work at NCAR in May 1962, construction of the Mesa Lab was still years in the future. Scientists used slide rules instead of computers. And because there were no satellites to carry instruments, a major goal...

 

José Meitín

José Meitín As a field project coordinator, it's not enough for José Meitín to understand complex scientific concepts and know how to use cutting-edge instruments. He also needs a flair for foreign diplomacy, proficiency in several languages, and a capacity for great patience when dealing with customs officials.