Question: What was your background at MIT?
Answer: I completed a BSc (course 2A) and MSc in mechanical engineering. My research in grad school focused on developing a chemistry and process for a light-based thermoplastic 3D printing method aimed at reducing plastic waste in large-scale manufacturing.

Q: What did you make?
A: This is a 64mm flat burr electric coffee grinder inspired by the EG-1, by Weber Workshops.

Q: Why did you make it?
A: I collect interesting bits of hardware and shiny metal like a big crow, and one of the benefits of hoarding junk is that occasionally, you end up with an actually useful combination of parts. My parents were getting into espresso at the time, and I wanted them to explore different beans, recipes, and grind sizes without having to take out a second mortgage for a decent quality grinder. I figured I could whip one up mostly using the stock and components I had on hand.

Q: What tools did you use to make it?
A: Most of the grinder is made from 6061 aluminum and 304 stainless steel, which I machined using the CNC mills and lathes at The Deep makerspace. A few components were 3D printed in matte white PLA to allow for easy adjustments and modularity.

Q: What was the most challenging part of the fabrication process?
A: The fabrication process is relatively straightforward with sufficient design foresight and manufacturing planning. The most challenging aspect for me is always managing time and balancing the trade-off between perfection and practicality, like deciding when a cosmetic error justifies completely remaking a part.

Q: What do you plan to make next?
A: I’m generally drawn towards projects that require me to step outside my comfort zone and learn about new disciplines and techniques. I’m currently working on restoring an old industrial robot arm and I’m looking to get into some automotive projects as soon as I have a little more space.