Course Offerings

This course offers a comprehensive, hands-on introduction to 3D printing (additive manufacturing) with a strong emphasis on safe and efficient operation of a Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) system. You'll delve into computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) for 3D printing and 3D CAD software to create and prepare models. The curriculum covers additive manufacturing processes and materials, safe printer operation, design for 3D printing, model preparation and repair, print simulation and support, replicating and optimizing prints, meeting specifications, post-processing techniques, and troubleshooting common print issues.

Course Objectives

Be able to set up and operate a Polylactic Acid (PLA) 3D printer safely using 100% biodegradable (plant-based) plastic filament

Learn how to generate 3D solid models using 3D CAD software

Learn how to download and modify preexisting models for 3D Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) printer

Know how to optimize models for successful printing with CAM software

Learn post-processing of printed parts

Troubleshoot common printer and slicing issues

Outline of Instruction

Holistic view of the additive manufacturing process

Basic operation and safety rules of a LulzBot TAZ FDM printer

Materials used in FDM printing

Introduction to CAD and CAM software

Download programs of preexisting models to a 3D (FDM) printer

Creating 3D solid parts from specifications

Slicing and printing

Troubleshooting printer and slicing issues

Cumulative project and evaluation

Contact Hours

120

CEUs

No

Industry Standard, State or National Certification

Certification

Manufacturing Production Technician Certification

Website

www.msscusa.org

Certification Learning Outcomes/Requirements

Manufacturing processes, maintenance awareness, quality and safety

CE or CU Articulation

No

Prerequisites

High School Graduate or GED; at least 18 years of age; reading level of 10th grade or higher.

Learning Supplies Needed

Make: Getting Started with 3D Printing (2nd Edition) by Kloski & Kloski (2021); student guides, 3D Printers and associated tools and equipment, laptops provided by students to use Tinkercad.

Clinical Site/Special Facilities

3D printers and associated materials/supplies.

Requirements for Successful Completion

90% attendance
Completion of all assigned objectives and successful completion of a final printing project

Accreditation/Special Approval Requirements

N/A

Intended Audience

This course is intended for personnel who wish to be employed in an industry position that utilizes 3D Printer Operator/Technicians, Post-processing Technicians, Model Maker, Additive Manufacturing Technologist/Engineer, Manufacturing Production Technician, and Industrial Maintenance Technician.

Specific Industry or Business Support Needs

3D Printer Operator/Technicians, Post-Processing Technicians, Model Maker, Additive Manufacturing Technologist/Engineer, Manufacturing Production Technician, Industrial Maintenance Technician

Wake County Need for Industry Positions

This is a skill gap area for the light manufacturing in Wake County that is dependent on Manufacturing and Production skilled technicians to keep manufacturing systems operating.

Industry or Job Titles Related to Training Outcomes for Employment

3D Printer Operator/Technicians

Post-processing Technicians

Model Maker

Additive Manufacturing Technologist/Engineer

Manufacturing Production Technician

Industrial Maintenance Technician

Related Courses

Course Contact Information