Reaching New Heights with 3D Printing

3d printing in the classroom

3D-printing at Western Michigan University is changing how students solve real-world problems in the classroom.

David Moussa, a graduate student studying aerospace engineering, took advantage of this technology. For the past six months, he has been designing and manufacturing a prototype electric-ducted fan for his aerospace propulsion course.

Moussa’s lab is a hands-on experience allowing students to design and determine the performance of aircraft propulsion systems. His fan is one of four principal propulsion systems. His prototype produces high thrust while being fuel-efficient to push the aircraft through the air. 

3D-printing enables mechanical and aerospace engineering students, such as Moussa, the ability to produce objects with much more complex structures than traditional manufacturing methods. They also benefit from much shorter lead times than associated traditional engineering methods, allowing for much faster development and testing of components.

Read more on how 3D printing will change your engineering degree by visiting StudyLink. Learn more on how you can take advantage of the free 3D printing services offered at WMU by visiting the 3D Printing website.