Printer Operation
Only designated facility staff can operate the printer.
Preparation
You will need a 3D model in one of the following formats: CAD or PART file (CAD, AP203/214 STEP, .STL, SOLIDWORKS .SLDPRT, Siemens NX .PRT, Autodesk Inventor .IPT) Follow best practices to create the most viable model for 3D printing. A good model will also minimize print time.
Submitting a Print Request
Check the material calendar and review the printer status on the home page. Make a request targeted for the interval that your metal powder is being used.
Work on best practices for model design to be sure your 3D model is ready when the printer is available. Consult with staff as needed.
Time Estimate
The project timeline will be a function of consultation iterations, instrument status, the metal material calendar, and staff time. The project ends when the client is notified to pick up their part and when the accounting is settled.
Entering the Printing Center
People can visit by request under supervision. Adhere to any safety postings.
Choosing to Print Metal in 3D
Additive manufacturing may not be the optimum choice for manufacturing a part. Check the orientation page to find comparisons between methods, such as additive/subtractive manufacturing, welding, casting, extrusion, and many more.
Post-processing or Characterization
These services are not part of the facility, but Michigan Tech has many resources for further processing of the part or analysis of its structure.
After the part is printed, these are the most likely tasks:
Staff
- Remove the powder
- Remove some supports
- Remove the part from the plate, if easy enough (such as hammer and chisel)
- Turn the part over to the client
Client
- Apply any heat treatment or machining
- Remove from baseplate if machining, wire EDM, or a band saw is required
- Finish removing supports
- Apply any finishing, such as sand blasting, milling, or polishing
- Ultrasonic clean the part for their use