The 3D Printers in our Makerspace use a process called Fused Filament Fabrication or Fused Deposition Modeling. A special motor feeds filament into a nozzle where it is heated to its melting point. It is then extruded onto the bed where it cools. The printer builds up material by placing layer on top of layer.
Schematic representation of the 3D printing technique known as Fused Filament Fabrication; a filament a) of plastic material is feeded through a heated moving head b) that melts and extrudes it depositing it, layer after layer, in the desired shape c). A moving platform e) lowers after each layer is deposited. For this kind of technology additional vertical support structures d) are needed to sustain overhanging parts.
This image by Paolo Cignoni [CC BY-SA 4.0], from Wikimedia Commons
There are a number of factors that can influence the time it takes to 3D Print an object: the complexity of the object, the percent of infill, the thickness of the shell, the layer height, and the type of printer.
Below is an image of the Cali Cat Calibration object printed at 4 different sizes. These can give you an idea of how long it might take to print out your object. They were printed using the default setting for the Monoprice MP Mini Select v2 Printer in CURA.
The Green Cat took 18 minutes to print.
The Blue Cat took 35 minutes to print.
The Pink Cat took 2 hours to print.
The Purple Cat took 3 hours and 40 minutes to print.
MP Select Mini 3D PrinterSmall scale printer perfect for quick jobs. Prints objects up to 4.7" x 4.7" x 4.7"
The MP Select Mini 3D Printer V1 printer was purchased with funds from the Student Library Technology Advisory Club. The 4 additional MP Select Mini 3D V2 Printers were purchases with funds from the Title V Grant.
Besides being able to print in very high detail, this printer can use interesting filaments such as PVA, a filament that can dissolve in water. Print volume of 8.7" x 8.7" x 8.7". It also boasts an extremely fast print speed option, and is quite user friendly.
This printer was purchased with funds from the Title III Grant.
