Whether you’re experienced in 3D model making or just want to try out 3D printing for the first time, why not try out the RSL3D printing service? This service is only available to members of Oxford University.
What is 3D printing?
3D printing enables a three-dimensional (3D) object to be created from a model, via computer control, most commonly by creating an object layer by layer and then fusing the layers together.
3D printing allows you to “print” a 3D object out of a variety of materials, such as plastic, metal, and organic materials. In the RSL, we offer 3D printing in PLA plastic in a variety of colours or PET-G plastic in black or white. Using a process called Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM), a 3D printer deposits hot plastic on to a build plate in layers that set instantly to build up a 3D object.
What have we been 3D printing?
The technology of 3D printing offers a wide range of uses and endless possibilities. We have used 3D printing for objects from a Peruvian flute to items created for a space experiment carried out on the International Space Station (ISS).
This ISS project featured a truss assembly and outer cover for an experiment investigating ferrofluids in microgravity, incorporating a series of electromagnets. This project, created by the ISSET-Oxford payload development team and developed from high school student-proposed research projects for the ISS, ran a successful experiment on the ISS in 2022.
How do I create my own 3D object?
Do you have a project of your own that you’d like to create in 3D form? To submit a 3D printing job, send us a 3D file of your model, and we’ll print it out for you. Find out more about how to submit your 3D printing project here.
What is the cost?
Depending on the size and scale of the model, the costs vary. Once your model has been approved for printing, we will get back to you with an estimated print time and cost. We charge £2 for the first hour, and £1 for every hour after that. A typical job takes about 5 hours and so would cost £6.
We aim to print models within 10 working days, although this may vary depending on demand and the size of the print job.
Find out more about our 3D printing services, including tips, resources, FAQs and more, here.
