State-of-the-Art 3D Printer

3-D Printer for CAD/Technology Classes

The Technology Education Department is excited to begin working with students utilizing a new Zcorp Model 310 Plus printer. This printer has the capability of producing output in three dimensions, which is very useful in the area of design and architecture. This technology will be utilized by Advanced CAD Honors students as well as upper level Architecture students.  Architecture students can create 3D models of buildings or even entire villages using this advanced printer technology.

A user will be able to design an object such as automotive engine piston using CAD software on a computer. The prototype design can then be “printed” on the 310 Plus, but the output is not a two-dimensional color picture. The CAD file is imported into the printer’s proprietary system software. The software slices the file into thin cross-sectional layers, which are fed then to the printer. The printer then creates the model by spreading a layer of powder material and a colored binder, one layer at a time, until the 3D model is complete.