3D Printers

The RDL has a series of 3D printers available for student access - these perform additive manufacturing, wherein material in the form of filament is heated and squeezed out of a print head, which lays down layers of material (a.k.a. FFF or FDM). As the layers cool, they form a solid part that can be used for a variety of purposes. 3D printing is usually good for prototyping, or for making parts that would be difficult to machine.

Learn more about our 3D printers

Table of Contents

Lulzbot Taz 6

The Lulzbot Taz 6 is a versatile, easy-to use printer with a large build volume and lots of filament choices (although we recommend PLA for most purposes). If you don't know what printer to use, chances are you want this one. The two printers we have in the shop feature single print heads, heated beds, automatic leveling systems, and slicers that make printing a breeze.

Materials:

  • PLA

  • ABS

  • PETG

  • Nylon

  • and more!

    • note: we cannot print flexible filaments on our printers :(

For more information, check out our tutorial here.

3D Printer Sign-In Sheet (Taz 6 only)

Before using the Lulzbot Taz printers, you should check to see if they are in use. If not, sign in on the spreadsheet before starting your print.

3D Printer Sign-Up

Markforged Mark x7

The Markforged Mark X7 is a state-of-the-art composite 3D printer that prints with continuous fiber reinforcement, which can yield parts as strong as aircraft aluminum. The materials printed on this printer can meet extraordinary functional requirements, including flame resistance, chemical resistance, energy absorbance, and high resolutions. However, access to this printer will only be granted if you can justify printing your part on this machine.

Composite base materials:

  • Onyx

  • Nylon

  • PLA

Fiber reinforcement materials:

  • Carbon Fiber

  • Fiberglass

For more details, read this document.

Talk to Drew Price (dprice@hmc.edu) if you want to use this machine.

Stratasys Dimension 1200es

The Stratasys Dimension 1200es is an older model of 3D printer that features the ability to print with soluble supports, which uses heated detergent to chemically remove support material from your part. This is good for delicate structures, but access will only be granted if you can justify printing your part on this machine.

Materials:

  • P430 ABSplus

To use, talk to Drew Price (dprice@hmc.edu)

What printer should I use?

3D Printing Flowchart.pdf