Durham College (DC) students in the School of Science & Engineering Technology’s (SET) Electronics Engineering Technology and Mechanical Engineering Technology programs, will now be able to create mechanical structures using six new rapid prototype (3D) printers, which were purchased after receiving innovation funds from the Centre for Academic and Faculty Enrichment (CAFÉ).

“3D printers are commonly used in both the electrical and mechanical fields,” said Chris Daniel, professor in the School of Science & Engineering Technology. “These printers allow students to inexpensively create custom computer-aided designs (CAD), which help them build the skills their future industry demands and allows them to explore their creative side; the student’s imagination is the limit.”

Of the six printers purchased, the Electronics Engineering Technology program will receive three Printrbots with heated beds, which will allow students to use CAD designs to create enclosures and power supply boxes to house their circuit board creations.

The Mechanical Engineering Technology students will have access to three Flashforge Dreamer printers and will be able to create pneumatic engine components and are able to develop their design skills through manufacturing.

“The beauty of this technology is that students can quickly and inexpensively create their structural designs without the time, safety or expertise constraints associated with using a traditional machine shop,” Daniel added.

In addition to the Electronics Engineering Technology and the Mechanical Engineering Technology programs integrating 3D printing into the curricula, other programs within SET will be looking to incorporate the technology in the future.