6 min read
Start with who will use the lab
A shared university lab might serve mechanical and biomedical engineering, architecture, industrial design and medical faculties. Each group needs something different: engineers want strong functional parts, architects want large models, medical students want detailed anatomy. Surveying departments before buying avoids a lab full of printers that fit only one use.
A balanced equipment mix
- Several reliable FDM printers for everyday student work in PLA and PETG. Identical models simplify training and spare parts.
- One or more enclosed FDM printers for engineering materials such as ABS, ASA, nylon and carbon-fiber blends.
- A multi-color system for architecture and anatomy models.
- A resin printer with a wash and cure station for high-detail work.
- Filament dryers, because nylon and other engineering filaments absorb moisture.
Space and safety
Plan for good ventilation, stable benches, enough power outlets and an uninterruptible power supply for long prints, since a power cut can ruin a 20-hour job. Keep resin printing in a separate area with gloves, eye protection and a clear procedure for waste. Post simple safety rules and train every student before they use the lab.
Operations: booking, queues and costs
Successful labs treat printing as a service. Use a booking or queue system so jobs are fair and visible, and record material use by course or project. Some universities charge students for material by weight, which encourages efficient designs. Assign a lab technician or trained student assistants to handle loading filament, removing prints and first-level maintenance.
Keeping printers running
Student labs print many hours per week, so wear parts are consumed quickly. Keep spare nozzles, hotends, build plates, PTFE tubes and belts on hand, and schedule regular cleaning. Choosing printer brands with local spare parts and support keeps downtime short, especially near the end of semester when demand peaks.
Working with a local supplier
Jordan Automation supplies universities and colleges with FDM and resin printers, filament, resin, dryers, UPS units and spare parts from Amman. We can help plan the equipment list for a new lab or expand an existing one. Contact us for a quotation.
Frequently asked questions
Should a university buy many identical printers or a mix?
A core fleet of identical FDM printers keeps training and spare parts simple. Add a few specialized machines for engineering materials, multi-color and resin work.
Why is a UPS recommended for 3D printers?
Long prints can run for many hours. A short power cut can ruin a print, so a UPS protects both the job and the electronics.
How do labs control filament costs?
Track material use per job, set size limits for coursework and consider charging by weight for personal projects.