3D printing puts manufacturing into the hands of everyday people. Learn the basics of designing files for 3D printing, preparing the printer, loading filament and troubleshooting. Your prints will be available for pick up on the next business day. The minimum age requirement is 12 years old.
“Why 3D Printing?
There are many different types of 3D printing machines and material. The material commonly comes as plastic wire on a spool and is called "filament". PLA filament is a corn-based bioplastic with properties suitable for many applications. PLA is often reported as "biodegradable" however, it still uses petroleum and other chemicals in it's manufacturing process, although this is much less than other available materials. So, what is the real benefit of 3D printing?
- 3D printing produces almost zero waste when compared to other manufacturing methods. You only produce what you need, no more, and no less. This could help to address our major global challenges.
- 3D printing could help to address some major challenges facing society today by providing a manufacturing method from home that produces less waste and energy compared when compared to buying the same part from a store. When combined with digital design software (the next step after this 3D printing course!), we can make fully customizable parts that perfectly suit our needs. Many objects and products end up in landfills because they break or they stop serving us. The design we need may not exist, either. 3D printing is more accessible than ever and when combined with design, it provides a powerful vehicle to solve everyday problems with less cost, waste, and energy from the comforts of our home.
- 3D printing is putting manufacturing in the hands of every day people. It allows us to design and customize parts from our living room instead of supporting mass manufacturing and its negative environmental impact.
It has never been easier for people to learn to 3D print. 3D printers can be purchased for under $400 and 3D design software is affordable, if not free. This puts manufacturing in the hands of everyone and promotes localized manufacturing with fewer emissions, waste, and transportation costs.”
Supplies included.
Visit our registration page for course locations, times and fees.