Prusa MK 4

Prusa MK 4

The Prusa MK 4 is an entry level system that features a front facing USB port, a simple user interface, and auto-bed leveling. PrusaSlicer, a free open source slicer program, is used to convert 3D computer models into G-Code instruction for printing operation. 

The Fab Underground's Prusa MK 4’s are intended to support faculty who want to integrate 3D printing into their course.  Access to the Prusa MK 4 3D printers is handled via our 3DP-TIPS service.  Unlike most 3D printing services, 3DP-TIPS provides students a hands on experience with 3D printing technology.  Students are required to earn their online certification via our online Canvas, sign up for time, and operate the Prusa MK 4.

3D printing is not free so there is a recharge rate applied. For this reason, reserving the Prusa MK 4 3D printers is limited to faculty, instructor, or student advisors

Understanding the Technology

What is FFF: In a process known as Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF), a.k.a. Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), the Prusa MK 4 additively builds objects by selectively applying a heated thermoplastic polymer in layers, typically 100 micron thick, from the build tray to the top of the part. 

FFF Materials: Prusa 3D printers in the Fabrication Underground use PLA plastic for model material and PVA (polyvinyl alcohol) a water soluble support material. PLA is a biodegradable plastic that is made from renewable resources like cornstarch or sugarcane. When compared to ABS, PLA is not quite as strong but the material uses less energy to form; is less likely to warp; is safer to use; and has less of an impact on the environment, making it an ideal material for 3D prototyping.

FFF Benefits: FFF 3D printers, such as the Prusa MK 4, provide an easy to use, cost effective solution to additive manufacturing. Due to their relative simplicity, FFF 3D printers tend to be inexpensive. FFF printers are highly tunable allowing users to adjust model infill and layer resolution which can reduce print time and cost. Low cost hardware, flexibility, and a wide selection of materials make the FFF the most common choice for 3D printing.

FFF Disadvantages: Because objects are built up from a thin bead of material, typically measuring 0.4 mm in diameter, build times are measured in hours to days. The filament extrusion process also limits feature detail, provides low dimensional accuracy, poor surface quality and part weakness between the layers in the z axis. Support structure is required for overhanging geometries which must be removed and negatively impact surface quality.

Prusa MK 4 Specifications

• Technology - Fused Filament Fabrication

• Build Volume - 250 x 210 x 220 mm | 9.84 x 8.3 x 8.6 in

• Layer Height - 0.05-0.30 mm

• Power Consumption PLA settings - 80W

• Heated build plate with active leveling

Availability and Pricing

Prusa MK 4 3D printers are intended to be used for academic use at a cost of $5.64 per 12 hour reservation. Students may sign up for time to use the 3D printers Monday through Friday from 9:oo am to 9:oo pm. Payment is due in the form of a short code transaction so faculty approval is required. We do not accept any other form of payment for Prusa MK 4 reservations.

Reserve Prusa 3D printers for your Class

Instruction for Faculty, Instructors and Student Advisors:

Prusa MK 4 3D printer class reservations are available to faculty, instructors, and student advisors to support coursework and student learning. To register your class within the system please complete the ‘3DP-TIPS Registration’ form. Afterward, you will have access to your dashboard where you can check your reservations, see who is using the 3D printers, and add additional time.

• Register Your Class (Faculty & Instructors)

• Access Your 3DP Dashboard (Faculty & Instructors)

Once your reservation has been confirmed you will receive an email confirmation. We ask that you share this email with your student(s) as it contains steps that the student will need to complete, see below. Students who complete their Prusa MK 4 certification will receive a ‘Certificate of Completion’ in PDF format.

For details refer to the 3DP-TIPS Faculty Portal

Instruction for Students:

Students are required to earn their Prusa MK 4 certification via the the Fab Underground Canvas course and sign up for print time in 3-hour blocks using the '3D Printing Sign-up Sheet for Students'. If your 3D print will exceed 3 hours, be sure to reserve enough consecutive 3-hour blocks of time required to complete your 3D print. You may only sign up for time reserved by your teacher for your class. 3D print jobs that conflict with other student schedules will be canceled.

For details refer to the 3DP-TIPS student portal

Learn How to 3D Print Using the Prusa MK 4

To learn how to design for, safely operate, and earn your ‘Prusa MK 4 Certification’, please visit our online Canvas course. If you need assistance please talk to a consultant at the help desk.

Additional Learning Materials: 

• Prusa MK 4 Guide

• Magics Workshop (STL Inspection and Repair)

  • STL Files for Magics Workshop

• Steps to Remove Supports

• Advanced Post Processing