3D Printing: In-Person Workshop APRE 3520

This hands-on workshop provides participants with foundational knowledge and practical skills in 3D printing, emphasizing additive manufacturing techniques relevant to engineering, design, and manufacturing contexts – for a general audience. Participants will explore core concepts including 3D printer componentry, motion and material systems, and printer electronics, with an emphasis on nozzle selection, layer heights, and printer configuration. Building upon these foundational concepts, the course guides participants using 3D digital slicing software, covering essential workflows like model preparation, optimization for strength and quality, and slicing techniques such as customized support generation and multi-material printing.​ A portion of the course addresses material selection, enabling participants to understand and choose appropriate filaments based on their mechanical properties, heat resistance, and compatibility with various print conditions. Learners will perform essential post-processing techniques such as support removal, sanding, filling, and finishing to produce high-quality prints and leave the workshop with a completed 3D printed part. The workshop incorporates guided demonstrations, peer collaboration, practical exercises, and site visits, including a tour of the Centre for Applied Learning (CARI) Lab and Advanced Additive Manufacturing Technology Hub (AAMTECH) spaces. This holistic learning approach ensures participants leave with practical experience in 3D printing suitable for immediate application in professional and academic projects.​