Manufacturing Method
Should I use additive manufacturing, welding, casting, or machining for my metal part?
That depends on the complexity of your model. Additive manufacturing can be expensive
and should not be used as a method if machining or casting will do the job, for example.
Here are some courses that can help you to understand machining and manufacturing
methods involving metals.
Best Practices
What are some best practices in 3D model design for additive manufacturing of metal
parts?
There are many things to consider when 3D printing, such as sharp corners, overhangs,
bridges, and many other details of geometry.
Primarily, it is important to design the part from the bottom up, instead of the top
down like traditional subtractive machining.
Feel free to contact us and we can help you on your way!
Viability
How can I be sure my model is viable for 3D printing?
One of the best methods to ensure that your print will be viable and successful is
to prototype print it first using plastics, primarily ABS. Doing so will show you
where your prints have internal stresses, where it will be difficult, and will aid
you getting to your final part that is ready for the metal printer.
Learn about 3D polymer printers on campus, such as the Polymeric Additive Manufacturing Facility. It is operated by the Department of Manufacturing and Mechanical Engineering Technology.
Education and Training
What can I do to learn more?
Michigan Tech offers classes in 3D printing, manufacturing, design, material characterization,
and related topics.
MSE 4777 - Distributed Additive Manufacturing Using Open-Source 3-D Printing
This course provides an overview of open-source hardware in theory and practice for an introduction to distributed additive manufacturing using open-source 3-D printing. Each student will build a customized RepRap and will learn all hardware and software for maintaining it.
- Credits:
3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered:
Fall
- Restrictions:
Must be enrolled in one of the following College(s): College of Engineering;
Must be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Junior, Senior
MET 3500 - Manufacturing Processes
Focuses on practical aspects of design and manufacturing. Covers fundamentals of manufacturing processes and includes a weekly lab to provide hands-on experience with manufacturing issues that influence component design.
- Credits:
4.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-3-2)
- Semesters Offered:
Fall
- Pre-Requisite(s): MSE 2100 and MET 2153
MET 4550 - Computer Aided Manufacturing
Course is designed to apply techniques used in parametric modeling (CAD) and convert this information to all phases of production planning, machining, scheduling and quality control.
- Credits:
3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-2-2)
- Semesters Offered:
Spring
- Restrictions:
Must be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Junior, Senior
- Pre-Requisite(s): MET 2153 and MET 2400
MET 4780 - Advanced Manufacturing
An introduction to advanced manufacturing processes, both traditional and nontraditional. Study of both theory and practice will be tied to laboratory experiments utilizing a spectrum of unique materials and methods.
- Credits:
3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-2-2)
- Semesters Offered:
Spring
- Restrictions:
Must be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Junior, Senior
- Pre-Requisite(s): MET 3500
MFGE 5300 - Design for Additive Manufacturing
This course looks into the challenges of Additive. Pros and cons of the seven ASTM AM categories are discussed with the view of product purpose: form, fit, and function. Effects of build orientation, layer height, particle size, and slicing software have on part integrity are also discussed.
- Credits:
3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-3-0)
- Semesters Offered:
Spring, Summer
- Restrictions:
Must be enrolled in one of the following Level(s): Graduate
MFGE 5400 - Additive Manufacturing Lab
A hands-on approach is used to investigate Additive Manufacturing technologies. Key concepts are demonstrated by implementing the generic eight-step AM process. Students will design and print parts using various AM machines.
- Credits:
3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-1-3)
- Semesters Offered:
Fall, Summer
- Restrictions:
Must be enrolled in one of the following Level(s): Graduate
MSE 5777 - Advanced Open-Source 3-D Printing
An introduction to distributed additive manufacturing using open-source 3-D printing. Design, use, and maintenance of open-source electronics and self-replicating rapid prototypers (RepRap). Graduate students will be expected to complete coursework and an in-depth project.
- Credits:
3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered:
Fall
- Restrictions:
Must be enrolled in one of the following Level(s): Graduate;
Must be enrolled in one of the following College(s): College of Engineering
Become Involved in Additive Manufacturing
How can I start a project or career in additive manufacturing?
Michigan Tech offers several related programs. Check Majors, Minors, and More for all undergraduate degree offerings. The Graduate School offers degree programs, certificate programs, and online programs.
- BS, MS, PhD in Materials Science and Engineering
- BS, MS in Mechanical Engineering
- Online MS in Mechanical Engineering
- MS in Engineering Mechanics
- PhD and Online PhD in Mechanical Engineering-Engineering Mechanics
- BS in Mechanical Engineering Technology
- Graduate Certificate Manufacturing Engineering
- Minor in Manufacturing or Manufacturing Systems
- MS in Manufacturing Engineering (coming soon)
The Michigan Tech article “Be Brief: Metal” lists several applications of 3D printing, along with a virtual tour of the 3D Systems
DMP 305.
The Van Pelt Library also provides 3D printing orientation and training for current students, faculty, and staff at Michigan Tech.
