My Role: Mechanical Engineering Intern

Skillsets: CAD/Engineering Drawing Proficiency, P&ID design, Electronic and Fluidic Systems Integration, Quality Control/Assurance, Machining, Manufacturing, Product Test Design and Execution

Objective:

Produce specialized Proton-Exchange Membrane electrolyzers for producing high-purity gas streams for NASA and commercial customers, intended for use in life support systems and satellite propulsion systems.

Results:

Contributed to all phases of electrolyzer production (design, manufacturing, inspection, testing) over the course of a 12-week internship.

Process & Discussion:

Throughout my time at Giner Labs, I had the opportunity to work on many different aspects of the production process for these specialized satellite electrolyzers. First, I contributed to product design through developing new CAD models and drawings for flight components, specialized tooling, product packaging/shipping materials. I also carried out manufacturing processes for flight components, frequently using tools such as die cutters and hydraulic presses, and at times working in a cleanroom environment. I was responsible for the individual testing of some of these flight components, and wrote a test plan, obtained necessary components, and constructed the test rig and test article for those components before the end of my internship. I also contributed to the integration of both electrical and fluid systems for a flight-rated zero gravity test stand, and performed analysis of electrolyzer test results. Additionally, I gained experience in quality engineering, drafting inspection forms for components and materials and producing tools that would aid part inspections. Overall, these many diverse experiences in design, manufacturing, testing, and quality gave me insight into the process of engineering and production as a whole, and I look forward to applying the technical and collaborative skills I learned to my future work.