Polije Engineering TEFA 3D Printing Develops Rapid Prototyping

The Teaching Factory (TEFA) 3D Printing of the Politeknik Negeri Jember (Polije) Engineering Department is actively developing three-dimensional printing technology to support various industrial needs. The TEFA is led by Wendy Triadji Nugroho, S.T., M.T., M.Sc., Ph.D., alongside the team, including Alex Taufiqurrohman Zain, S.Si., M.T., and Agung Budi Prasetyo, S.Tr.T.

This innovation enables rapid prototyping with high accuracy through a layer-by-layer process using PLA material. Wendy Triadji Nugroho explained the technical process applied at the TEFA 3D Printing facility.

“PLA material is processed by heating it to a temperature of 205-215°C and then sprayed by the nozzle onto a bed with a temperature of 60°C using a layer-by-layer system. Large and dense objects require more than 12 hours, while small and light objects can be completed in 1–3 hours,” Wendy explained.

TEFA 3D Printing serves not only as a production facility but also as a learning center for students to master modern manufacturing technology. Students gain direct experience in operating various types of 3D printing machines and learn CAD design to create innovative products ready for application in the industrial world.

Various innovative projects have been produced, including automotive components, medical devices, and other creative products. The technology is proven to reduce production costs and processing time, serving as a flexible tool across various industries such as health, education, and manufacturing.

“Our students succeeded in creating a light and strong car gear knob, as well as various prototypes of medical aids tailored to specific user needs,” Alex Taufiqurrohman Zain added, listing the TEFA’s achievements.

Wendy concluded the explanation by expressing hope for the future development of the facility.

“I hope that the TEFA 3D Printing at the Engineering Department will always receive support from Politeknik Negeri Jember, and can continue to provide optimal contribution to student learning activities and lecturer research,” Wendy hoped.