Student-Operated Lab
The GCI
3D Print Farm
Bambu Lab A1, A1 Mini, and P1S printers — operated by students, open to the campus community. From rapid prototyping to multi-color prints, we've got the tools to bring your ideas to life.
About the Lab
Lab Overview
The GCI Print Farm is a student-operated 3D printing lab providing accessible fabrication services for learners and staff across Genesee Community College.
Students manage the full workflow — from model review and slicing to printing, quality inspection, and handoff. Working in the lab builds real-world skills in manufacturing, problem solving, and team operations.
- 3 Bambu Lab printer models available
- PLA, PETG, and specialty filaments stocked
- Multi-color AMS printing supported (A1 and P1S)
- Open to trained students, staff, and campus projects
- Structured 5-day training required before independent operation
Quick Facts
Equipment
Printer Inventory
Three Bambu Lab models — each suited to different project types and scales.
Bambu Lab A1
Large build volume with full AMS multi-color support. Ideal for bigger projects that need more detail or multiple colors.
Bambu Lab A1 Mini
Compact desktop printer with fast print speeds and AMS support. Perfect for quick iterations and smaller parts.
Bambu Lab P1S
Fully enclosed chamber for high-temperature filaments like ABS, ASA, and PA. Quieter and ideal for engineering-grade parts.
Available Filaments
| Material | Printers | Best Uses | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| PLA | A1, A1 Mini, P1S | General printing, prototypes, figurines | Most Common |
| PETG | A1, A1 Mini, P1S | Durable parts, functional prints | Flexible & Strong |
| ABS / ASA | P1S only | UV-resistant outdoor parts, heat-tolerant | Requires Enclosure |
| TPU | A1, P1S | Flexible parts, gaskets, bumpers | Check Availability |
How It Works
Print Job Workflow
Follow these steps to get your design printed at the GCI Print Farm.
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Prepare your file
Export your design as STL or 3MF. If you haven't designed your own, find a model on MakerWorld. Verify it's printable in Bambu Studio before submitting.
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Submit the order form
Fill out the Print Order Form with your name, file, material preference, quantity, and any special notes.
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Lab operator review
A trained lab operator will review your submission for printability, estimated time, and filament availability.
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Print queue & production
Your job is added to the print queue. Operators load filament, configure Bambu Studio, and start the print.
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Quality inspection
Once complete, prints are inspected for defects. If issues are found, the operator will contact you to discuss re-printing.
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Pickup
You'll be notified when your print is ready for pickup. Bring any filament cost reimbursement if required.
Before You Submit
Submission Expectations
File Requirements
- File must be in STL or 3MF format
- Model must be manifold (watertight — no holes in geometry)
- Wall thickness should be at least 1.2 mm for PLA
- Overhangs beyond 45° should include supports
- File should be under 100 MB
Print Job Guidelines
- Single jobs should complete within 6 hours
- Batch jobs should be pre-approved by a lab supervisor
- Multi-color jobs require AMS-compatible file setup
- Commercial or for-profit prints require special approval
- Print jobs are done in order — allow 2–5 business days
New to printing? Complete the 5-day training program before submitting a print job on your own. Trained operators can help with slicing and file prep during open lab hours.
Lab Rules
Safety & Lab Expectations
Personal Safety
- Never touch the print head or bed while the printer is running
- Hot end temperatures can exceed 250°C — always wait for cooldown
- Do not reach inside the P1S enclosure during a print
- Wash hands after handling filament
Lab Conduct
- Only trained and authorized students may operate printers
- Do not modify printer settings without supervisor approval
- Clean up filament scraps and supports before leaving
- Report any issues or failures immediately
What Not to Print
- No weapons, weapon components, or replicas
- No copyrighted or trademarked designs without permission
- No items intended to deceive, harm, or intimidate
- No commercial resale items without prior approval
Keep Printers Running
Weekly Maintenance
Trained operators are responsible for regular maintenance to keep all printers in good condition.
Weekly Tasks
- Wipe down the print bed with isopropyl alcohol
- Check nozzle condition and clear any partial clogs
- Inspect the AMS feed path and clean if needed
- Check belt tension on X and Y axes
- Clear filament scraps and supports from the build area
- Verify filament spool weight and restock if low
Monthly / As-Needed
- Lubricate X/Y/Z guide rails with appropriate grease
- Re-level the bed if first layers look uneven
- Inspect PTFE tubes for cracks or discoloration
- Check wiring harness for wear or abrasion
- Run a calibration print and document results
- Report any hardware issues to the lab supervisor
Maintenance logs should be updated after each session. See the Resources page for full maintenance guides.
Need Help?
Help & Support
Ask a Lab Operator
A trained student operator is available during open lab hours. They can help with file prep, settings, and troubleshooting.
Training Program
Not sure where to start? Complete the 5-day training program to learn everything you need to print independently.
Resource Library
Troubleshooting guides, maintenance how-tos, Bambu Studio tips, and a full FAQ — all in the Resources section.
Live Print Queue
An online print queue dashboard is planned — check your job status, estimated completion time, and operator notes in real time.
Submit a Job Now →