Trans-Matic Experience
Reid
Experience Information
Employer: Trans-Matic
Job Title: Engineering Intern
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: Yes
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
Trans-matic is a manufacturer of precision deep drawn components and assemblies for the automotive, builders' hardware, appliance, plumbing, power tool, HVAC, and other markets. These include manufacturing of metal stamped brass cartridges and metal casings for ammunition needs. Trans-Matic manufactures deep drawn metal stampings on high-speed transfer presses from 5 to 600 tons. These presses have the capability to manufacture parts up to 4.5mm (.180") thick and 200mm (8') tall. Primary materials used include low carbon, stainless, brass, copper, bronze, and aluminum. Trans-Matic also specializes in prototype development and tool design, advanced product development, and value added assemblies. Trans-Matic is global with plants in Suzhou, China and Monterrey, Mexico as well as Mesa, AZ and the Holland, MI Headquarters. The Holland plant is 77,000 sq. ft. and has approximately 200 employees.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
Working as an intern for the engineering department I completed a wide range of tasks. I managed engineering drawings for a new product launch. I developed a new tool to aid in tool setup which allows the toolmakers to use a comparator (measurement device) to establish tolerance profiles of the part after each stamping process. I used SolidWorks FEA to analyze a prototype side piece assembly post. I also completed Engineering Change Requests of gauges and part prints. I updated tooling drawings and models based on toolmaker feedback. I redesigned stamping stations to include things like ejector pins, spring sleeves, and higher tonnage chucks. I aided in the design of a geared assembly and recommended design changes to customers for ease of manufacture and measurement while keeping design intent. These recommendations were implemented by them.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
I have learned the ability to work with other individuals, how transfer presses work, the general sense for precision deep metal forming, 8D Problem solving techniques, and how to communicate with customers. I have obtained technical knowledge of metal forming stations, blank calculation, tolerancing, detailing, 3D modeling in Creo Parametric, and SolidWorks FEA. I have been exposed to how parts are measured and what measurement techniques are typical for certain call-outs. This has helped my knowledge of GD&T by seeing and speaking to the individuals who measure parts and by creating datum schemes with geometric tolerances.
Favorite Part of the Experience
I am an individual who loves having responsibility and being able to manage my own time. My co-op experience has provided me with both without overwhelming me too much. I learn the most in an environment where I am challenged and pushed. Trans-Matic provided that exact opportunity for me, leaving the choice to pursue in my hands. I was able to work with another Grand Valley State University student in the same co-op rotation which made the learning experience all the easier. I was also given the opportunity to travel to Mexico. My favorite part of my co-op has been my supervisor's willingness to invest in my learning and my future.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
This experience has opened my eyes to the type of people I desire to work with and the type of person I want to work for as well as the type of company I want to be a part of. I want to be proud of the work I do and the company I work for and my experience has helped me see that work is not just a place one shows up to day after day. I have also seen the way others act in particular situations which has influenced the way I will act in my future career.