Ravenna Ductile Iron Co-Op I
Nicholas
Experience Information
Employer: Metal Technologies Ravenna Ductile Iron
Job Title: Engineering Co-Op
Major: Product Design and Manufacturing Engineering
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: Yes
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
Metal Technologies Ravenna Ductile Iron (RDI) is a ductile iron foundry specializing in high volume, high requirement castings. Industries served by RDI include but are not limited to automotive, railroad and small engines. Metal Technologies Inc., headquartered in Auburn, Indiana employs roughly 1,300 individuals across 8 locations throughout the US and Mexico, with RDI employing between 200 and 300 individuals.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
Throughout this semester I worked with RDI's engineering team, performing a variety of tasks to gain a broad understanding of the engineering aspects of a foundry. This included the cleaning and examination of casting mold patterns for damage or defects, scrap analysis of castings to determine patterns in defects, and CAD work to create new mold patterns or modify existing ones. A major project completed was the reverse engineering of a transferred pattern, utilizing measurement techniques and CAD skills acquired in earlier EGR courses.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
I gained an understanding of manufacturing processes throughout this co-op rotation, starting with the acquisition of a casting mold and advancing to full production. Knowledge of CAD and utilization of relevant programs was also greatly improved. I also gained introductory knowledge regarding fluid dynamics.
Favorite Part of the Experience
My favorite part about this co-op experience would be the balance of hands-on work with CAD design. I was not just constrained to a single office and was able to observe production in various stages, thus gaining a better understanding of the relation between design and product.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
This experience has further increased my interest in the design aspect of engineering. I have also gained a better appreciation for manufacturing and will pursue furthering my education in this field.