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3D printing in core facilities - Low pain, high gain
Mohammad Goudarzi1, Maximilian Schuster1, Arthur Milberger2
1Imaging & Optics Facility, Institute of Science and Technology Austria, Klosterneuburg, Austria.
Journal of Microscopy
|May 9, 2026
Summary
Three-dimensional (3D) printing offers microscopy facilities custom solutions for tools and components, enhancing innovation and efficiency. This guide focuses on practical implementation, service organization, and user engagement for 3D printing in research environments.
Area of Science:
- Microscopy and Optical Engineering
- Materials Science and Additive Manufacturing
Background:
- Three-dimensional (3D) printing has evolved into a vital technology across scientific fields.
- In microscopy and optical engineering labs, 3D printing allows for custom sample holders, optical components, and lab tools, replacing traditional specialized machining.
- It offers rapid prototyping, cost-effective production, and reproducibility, boosting innovation and operational efficiency.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a perspective on the implementation of 3D printing in microscopy core facilities.
- To focus on practical aspects such as service organization, user engagement, resource management, and design dissemination through community repositories.
- To offer insights for those considering 3D printing services for developing add-on components and managing advanced instrumentation.
Main Methods:
- This article offers a perspective, not a technical review of 3D printing technologies.
- Focuses on the organizational and strategic aspects of integrating 3D printing services.
- Highlights community-driven approaches for sharing designs and best practices.
Main Results:
- 3D printing enables the creation of customized solutions for microscopy and optical engineering laboratories.
- Implementation facilitates rapid prototyping, low-cost production, and enhanced reproducibility of components.
- Effective service organization, user engagement, and resource management are key to successful integration.
Conclusions:
- 3D printing is an indispensable tool for microscopy core facilities, enabling bespoke solutions and operational efficiencies.
- Successful implementation requires strategic planning regarding service organization, user support, and resource management.
- Community-driven design repositories can accelerate innovation and knowledge sharing within the research community.
