School of Engineering Makerspace
The Makerspace within the School of Engineering is a state-of-the-art facility designed to provide students with hands-on opportunities to apply their manufacturing knowledge in a real-world setting.
By engaging in practical projects and experiments, students can deepen their understanding of engineering concepts and hone their technical skills. Equipped with a wide array of advanced tools and technologies, the Makerspace supports both additive (3D printing) and subtractive (machining) manufacturing processes, enabling a diverse range of innovative projects.
With over 30 3D printers, the space accommodates everything from simple designs to complex prototypes. The 3D printing equipment includes basic FDM printers for small-scale prints, as well as high-end machines capable of printing with metals, carbon-fiber reinforced plastics, and high-temperature polymers. A large-format 3D printer can produce models up to 1x0.5x0.5 meters in size, making it ideal for larger-scale designs. The Makerspace also boasts a full suite of machining tools, including basic milling and lathe machines, CNC equipment (including 5-axis capabilities), laser cutters, and waterjet cutters—each capable of working with a broad range of materials. Additionally, the space offers cutting-edge design visualization tools such as a BIM Cave, virtual reality headsets, and augmented reality systems. Students can also explore electronics and design and manufacture printed circuit boards (PCBs).
The Makerspace fosters a collaborative and innovative environment, supporting student projects and encouraging experimentation. Although primarily focused on student-driven activities, the Makerspace is also open to research and commercial ventures. These can be facilitated through direct engagement with technical staff or by involving students in sponsored projects, internships, and industry collaborations—providing valuable resources and expertise to companies.
A closer look at the Makerspace
Building Information Models (BIM) Computer Aided Virtual Environment (CAVE), an immersive virtual reality system used in the construction industry for visualizing and interacting with building designs.
A bank of Ultimaker 3D Printers
A bank of Ultimaker 3D printers capable of multi-material printing.
An academic highlighting the use of the BIM CAVE by demonstating a visualisation of the University Railway System.
A student uses a 3D printer.
Key Equipment and Capabilities:
- Basic FDM 3D Printers (Tiertime Up series)
- Advanced FDM 3D Printers (Ultimaker S5 with multi-material capabilities)
- Desktop Continuous Fibre-Reinforced 3D Printer (Markforged Mark 2, carbon fibre, Kevlar, fibreglass)
- Resin-Based 3D Printer (Formlabs Form 3 with a range of materials)
- Powder-Based 3D Printer (Formlabs Fuse 1+30W)
- MiniFactory Ultra Polymers 3D Printer (materials such as PEEK, PAEK, PEI, etc.)
- BigRep Large-Scale 3D Printer (up to 1x0.5x0.5 meters)
- Markforged Metal X 3D Printer (prints with steels, nickel, and copper)
- Small-Scale Injection Molding (using metal or 3D printed molds)
- Laser Cutting and Engraving
- Abrasive Waterjet Cutting
- CNC Machining (3- and 5-axis milling and turning)
- Advanced Machining (customizable based on project requirements, including conventional and non-conventional machining like wire EDM)
- Vacuum Forming and Pressure Molding
- CAD/CAM Support for student projects and design development
- Visualization Tools (BIM Cave, Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality)
- Basic Robotics Systems, including the Boston Dynamics robot dog Spot
- Basic Electronics (soldering, PCB development, oscilloscopes, etc.)
- CNC Wire Bending
- Composite Oven (for small-scale parts)
- Hand Tools and Lab Space for general manufacturing and assembly
- Technical Expertise and day-to-day support from experienced staff
To learn more or access the Makerspace facilities please email makerspace@contacts.bham.ac.uk.