The 3D FabLab is the central learning, development and experimentation space of the Chair of Manufacturing Technology. It gives students at the University of Duisburg-Essen the opportunity not only to learn about additive manufacturing technologies in theory, but also to experience the entire development and manufacturing process in practice - from the initial idea and component design to the finished part.

The focus is on hands-on learning. Students work directly with modern manufacturing systems and become familiar with the complete additive manufacturing process chain: design, process preparation, slicing, manufacturing, post-processing and analysis. In doing so, they develop an understanding of the relationships between component design, material selection, process control and component quality.

In addition to teaching, the 3D FabLab serves as an open platform for student projects, interdisciplinary collaboration and rapid prototyping. New ideas can be implemented, tested and further developed quickly. Independent work, responsibility and experimental development are actively encouraged.

The FabLab is equipped with a range of additive manufacturing systems based on material extrusion (FDM/MEX), stereolithography and laser sintering. The laboratory also provides computer workstations for design and slicing, a variety of materials and tools for post-processing. This enables students to carry out additive manufacturing independently along the entire process chain and gain valuable hands-on experience.

The 3D FabLab therefore provides an environment in which modern manufacturing technology becomes tangible through practical experience and where students are introduced to current research, development and industrial topics at an early stage.