Embedded Files
3D Printing for Class
3D Printing for Class
Prusa XL
The Prusa XL is an advanced, large‑format fused‑filament fabrication (FFF) 3D printer featuring a segmented heated bed, multi‑toolhead capability, and Prusa’s Nextruder system for high‑precision, multi‑material printing. Its automated calibration routines, load‑cell first‑layer system, and modular toolchanger make it well‑suited for complex parts, multi‑color workflows, and research‑oriented fabrication. PrusaSlicer is used to prepare 3D models for printing, including tool assignments, modifier meshes, and multi‑material configurations.
The Fab Underground’s Prusa XL printers are intended for advanced users, research groups, and faculty who require larger build volumes or multi‑material capabilities. Access is managed through 3DP‑TIPS, and—consistent with our hands‑on training model—students operate the XL directly. Users must complete the advanced Prusa XL certification in Canvas, reserve time on the equipment, and demonstrate proficiency with multi‑toolhead slicing and machine setup.
Because XL printing involves higher material usage and increased wear on components, a recharge rate applies. For this reason, reservations for the Prusa XL are limited to faculty, instructors, research teams, or student advisors overseeing advanced projects.
What is FFF on the Prusa XL
The Prusa XL uses the same Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF), also known as Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), process as the MK4s: it builds objects additively by extruding heated thermoplastic polymer in thin layers. However, the XL is engineered for multi‑color printing, using Prusa’s Nextruder toolheads and toolchanger system to selectively deposit different PLA colors within the same print. Layer heights typically range from 100–200 microns depending on the toolhead configuration and project requirements.
PLA Materials for Multi‑Color Printing
In the Fabrication Underground, the Prusa XL is configured for multi‑color PLA printing using up to five independent Nextruder toolheads. PLA remains the preferred material due to its reliability, low warping, environmental friendliness, and predictable behavior across multiple toolheads. Each color is loaded into its own extruder, allowing the XL to switch colors automatically during printing.
Benefits of Multi‑Color PLA on the Prusa XL
The Prusa XL provides several advantages over single‑extruder systems when working with color PLA:
True multi‑color printing without manual filament swaps
High‑precision toolchanging using load‑cell calibration for consistent first layers
Large build volume, enabling color‑rich signage, architectural models, and multi‑part assemblies
Segmented heated bed for even thermal distribution across large prints
Reduced post‑processing, since color is applied during printing rather than painted afterward
These capabilities make the XL a powerful platform for advanced coursework, research, and fabrication projects requiring color‑accurate output.
Limitations of Multi‑Color PLA on the Prusa XL
Despite its strengths, multi‑color PLA printing has constraints:
Longer print times due to tool changes and purge routines
Increased material usage, especially for purge blocks or transition towers
Color bleeding risk if transitions are not tuned correctly
Higher complexity, requiring careful slicing, tool assignment, and calibration
Surface artifacts may appear at color boundaries depending on geometry and toolpath
Because of these factors, the XL is best suited for advanced users who understand slicing strategies, toolhead behavior, and multi‑material workflow management.
Prusa XL Specifications
Technology - Fused Filament Fabrication
Build Volume - 360 × 360 × 360 mm | 14.17 × 14.17 × 14.17 in
Layer Height - 0.05-0.30 mm
Power Consumption PLA settings - 160–200 W typical
Heated build plate with active leveling
Toolheads – Up to 5 Nextruders for multi‑color PLA workflows
Availability and Pricing
Prusa 3D printers are intended to be used for academic use at a cost of $0.54 per hour. Students may sign up for time to use the 3D printers Monday through Friday from 9:oo am to 6: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 reservations.
Learning Links
Learning Links
Instructions for Faculty, Instructors and Student Advisors
Prusa MK 4s & Prusa XL 3D printer 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 4s 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 XL printer 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 XL
To learn how to design for, safely operate, and earn your ‘Prusa XL Certification’, please visit our online Canvas course. If you need assistance please talk to a consultant at the help desk.
Additional Learning Materials:
Magics Workshop (STL Inspection and Repair)
STL Files for Magics Workshop
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