Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: What's the status of my 3D printing job?
A: Come to the Studio during operating hours and talk to a Studio Technician - we are happy to update you on the status of your submission! We do not provide status updates via email for 3D printing jobs. Often Technicians will put comments on your Canvas submissions to track their progress through our system (currently printing, in support removal bath, etc) which will give you an idea of the status.
Q: How many 3D printed parts / lasercut jobs can I submit in a semester?
A: You can submit up to 20 3D printed parts and 30 lasercutting jobs a semester. Your job quota reset three times a year - fall semester, spring semester, and summer session. And it's all free of charge!
Q: I only need to 3D print something, do I need to complete the In-Person Safety Training?
A: Yes. The In-Person Safety Training covers essential guidelines for working safely and cleanly in our workspace and provides specific information you will need to access our 3D printing services.
Q: I have already completed a training for another fabrication lab on campus, do I need to complete the In-Person training for the Engineering Studios too?
A: Yes. The University requires separate trainings and certifications for each lab. The Engineering Studios has its own unique tools, processes, and safety protocols that you’ll need to know before getting started here.
Q: How many lasercutting jobs can I submit in a day / at one time?
A: It depends. On busier days, Technicians will triage submissions to ensure the greatest number of members can have their jobs processed. This means not all of your boards may be cut at once. Technicians also reserve the right to decline certain laser cutting submissions, or recommend a different day/time, if the job is considered time‑consuming (over 1 hour) and/or outside the scope of the typical projects we process at the Engineering Studios. As a reminder, you can submit up to 30 lasercutting jobs a semester.
Q: Why is my 3D print leaking liquid?
A: Most 3D prints are post-processed in our support removal bath. If you pick up your part shortly after it’s removed and before it has time to fully drain, it may leak for a few hours. To speed up the drying process, you can ask a tech to place your part in the vacuum degassing chamber for a few minutes.
Q: Can I make fun stuff not for classes?
A: Absolutely! In fact, we encourage it. The only constraint is we want to see your original designs - please don't submit files directly downloaded from online to our 3D printing services (like licensed figurines - no Pokémon or Labubu's please!). Our friends at the Education Commons can help you if you'd like to experiment with existing design files.
Q: Why was I denied entry to Tangen Hall on an evening/weekend?
A: Please complete a Venture Lab membership application in order to get evening and weekend access to Tangen Hall.