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Nicholas Klein |
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Participants Summer Internships 2002 Main Page
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The first task that was given to me was to review all of the various testing performed on different rubber samples in the analytical laboratory. This testing included scanning polymer samples on a Fourier Transform infrared (FT-IR) spectrometer, and performing a compositional analysis using an induced coupled plasma (ICP). I performed the routine testing throughout my time with the analytical laboratory, along with my other projects. I was also able to put my troubleshooting skills to use. I helped remedy a corrosion problem that occurred within the vacuum line. I was able to develop a way to clean out the line without any dismantling of the line, which would have caused delays in vacuum filtration. I was also able to assist in cleaning and repairing the vacuum pump itself, which had frozen up due to the acid corrosion through the line. The major project I undertook was performing measurement system analyses on different analytical equipment. The first step was to learn how to use Minitab statistical software. Next, I asked the laboratory technicians to run a control sample through the machines that had known values for certain properties and record the data given by the machine. After gathering the data, I ran the numbers through Minitab. This allowed me to do numerous statistical process control calculation, such as creating control charts. I then created a spreadsheet to perform a Gage R&R, or repeatability and reproducibility test, on the machines from the data. After making the necessary calculation, I drafted reports for the different analytical tools. These reports included the results of the analyses, and also recommendations to the analytical staff on how to improve their validation methods on the different machines. I also documented all of the validation methods that were used for all of the analytical equipment. This was all done in preparation for the laboratory in gaining ISO 17025 accreditation. After the reports had been written, I explained to the analytical staff what they meant. I also taught the two analytical chemists on how to use Minitab for any future statistical analyses and drafted an informal instruction manual for guidance on how to use the software. I also had the opportunity to work in the physical laboratory during the last month of the summer. While there, I also reviewed all of the prior testing I had performed the previous summer, and performed all of this testing during my time there. Some of the testing methods I performed included tensile strength testing and adhesion testing. I also had the opportunity to run hypothesis testing on new equipment versus old equipment, which again used my knowledge of statistics. During the last week of my internship, I was able to interview for any possible future chemical engineering openings that Cooper might have at the time of my graduation. This gave me a great look at the interview process and what type of questions to expect during an interview. I thoroughly enjoyed my time this summer at Cooper Tire and Rubber. I was able to use my knowledge in chemistry, mathematics, and engineering throughout the summer. I was given meaningful, challenging work that allowed me to show what I am capable of. I also met many different people, and learned how to work with all different kinds of personalities. I am very grateful for my opportunity to work at Cooper, and the experience I gained while an intern with the company. |
This past summer, I had the opportunity to intern for the second
time at Cooper Tire and Rubber Company in Findlay, Ohio. I was able to
work in the Technical Center, where research, engineering, and
experimental testing are performed. Cooper Tire and Rubber Company,
founded in 1914, specializes in the manufacturing and marketing of rubber
products for consumers. Products include automobile, truck and motorcycle
tires, inner tubes, noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) control systems,
automotive sealing, and fluid delivery systems. The Findlay plant itself
produces replacement automobile and truck tires. The Findlay location is
also the corporate headquarters.