3D
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FDM

Fused Deposition Modeling

FDM prints by depositing melted plastic line by line, layer by layer. It's the workhorse of the lab — affordable, versatile, and suitable for most architectural and product models. We run a full fleet of Prusa machines in multiple sizes.

• Immediate Policies — Little to No Exception

  No prints over 24 hours — split large models into smaller parts. No prints over 1KG of filament. Submit at least 5 business days before your deadline to guarantee completion. Minimum wall thickness: 2.0 mm for FDM. Students may only occupy one machine at a time unless the queue is empty.
• Submit a Print Request

  Submit a Print Request →

Hardware

Machines & Filament

Our Prusa fleet covers everything from small detail prints to large architectural models. Choose the right machine for your build volume and material needs.

Available Filament

Typical request: 200–500g = $6–$15. Formula: grams × filament price = cost. Students may bring their own filament upon request.

Not sure if your geometry is ready? Review the checklist below before submitting.

Before You Submit

Prior to Submitting a Request

Follow this checklist to avoid delays and ensure your print is processed correctly. Submissions that don't meet these requirements will be returned.

• Initial Consultation Required

  It is heavily recommended to setup an initial consultation session if you have never 3D printed before through CAP Fab Labs.
• Class Intro Counts

  Class projects and assignments that include introductory presentations by qualified faculty or CAP FabLab staff count as the required initial consultation session.

Before You Submit

Submitting Your Request

Follow these steps carefully when submitting your print request. Initial processing occurs at 11:00am on business days. The queue level is communicated by the Makercorps team.

• Access the Request Form

  ServiceNow request form — submit your print here.
• Download the Template

  Rhino template file — use it to plan your print project.
• Build Plate Fit

  Ensure each Mesh/NURB object fits within the build plate dimensions of your chosen machine.
• Watertight Geometry

  Ensure each Mesh/NURB object is watertight and does not contain bad geometry.
• Export as STL

  Export each Mesh/NURB object as an STL file in millimeter units.
• Separate Large Geometry

  Any closed geometry greater than 2 square inches must be submitted as a separate STL file.
• Group Small Parts

  Closed geometries smaller than 2 square inches can be exported as a group — all objects must be aligned to Z-Zero.
• Duplicate Prints

  For duplicate prints, construct a build plate using the template file and export duplicates as one STL — all aligned to Z-Zero.
• File Format

  Submit STL files only. Do NOT send 3DM files — we will leave a comment for you to resubmit. We will only print the STL files submitted. 3mf is also allowed but discouraged.
• Naming Convention

  All STL file names must include the filament size and color (e.g., mymodel_175mm_white.stl).
• Default Print Settings

  All prints default to brims, supports, and 20% infill (more than likely 5% if it's a very large model) unless alternatives are specified in the request notes.

Before You Submit

Expectations & Turnaround

Plan ahead and know what to expect once your print is submitted.

• Finals Season Delays

  During Finals Season, expect prints to be delayed, possibly up to 7 business days from initial processing.
• Processing Schedule

  Please view the student work calendar outside of the lab's door to see when processing might occur — typically during student shifts.
• Brim & Support Removal

  We do not remove brim and support materials for you — you are welcome to use our tools to do so.

Special Use

SLA / Resin Printing

Our most precise offering to date — ideal for small, intricate geometry like miniatures, jewelry prototypes, and complex organic forms. Significantly more expensive than FDM and requires post-processing.