The objective is to introduce to students 3D printing of polymeric materials (thermoplastic and thermoset).

3D printing of ceramic and metal is not taught for the moment because these technologies are too expensive.

My course is based on feedback on 3D printers that we have acquired and used in teaching during student projects and also in research on recent projects with industrialists (SAFRAN E&P, OUDOUL64).  

After an introduction on the development of 3D printing in UPPA since 2014, we will see that SLA and FDM 3D printing are quite different and the criteria of selection of one of this two technologies too (esthetic aspect, mechanical properties, thermal properties, price, time to proceed).

To finish a short introduction of 4D printing developed at MIT/Harvard lab.

› Course structure :

During the lectures a presentation will be given on :

Introduction to 3D printing

• Definition of 3D printing, 
• Possibilities to print numerical object, 
• Principe of 3D printing with FDM, 
• Comparison of our two 3D printers in UPPA, 
• Comparison of materials and mechanical properties of 3D printed parts, 
• Projects of students in Master, 
• Advantages and drawbacks, 
• 4D printing, 
• Conclusions. 

3D printing with laser technology : SLA

• Schematic of SLA process, 
• Preform software, 
• Flexural and Tensile test on RIGID resin, 
• Examples of printed parts :

1. First printing, 
2. Technical part with thread, 
3. Sinusoidal thermal exchanger, 
4. Y connector, 

• Comparison with FDM, 
• Injection moulding in SLA prototype mould. 

Upon completion of this course, you will be able to : 

• Identify the right printing process FDM or SLA,
• Choose the right materials and printing parameters, 
• Improve the surface condition of printed parts, 
• Know the limits of these 3D parts compared to thermoplastic injection for example to specific applications.

First session : 100% written final exam. 

Second session : 100% written final exam.