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Credits and Pricing

Last modified by Alex Troyer on 2025/09/02 21:36

The Reservation Credits System

Reservations in the Rapid Prototyping Studio are charged on a per-hour usage basis, using a credits-based system. If you don't have enough credits in your account, you will not be able to make a reservation. Here are some quick facts about RPS Credits and how they work.

  • Credits are given for free for certain projects, such as:
    • Academic coursework
    • Personal Use allowances as determined by the MEEN Department Administration.
  • 1 Credit is equal to $1.00, and can be purchased on our online store if needed.
  • Credits are non-refundable, but do not expire, except upon graduation
  • Credits can be transferred to other students upon request

We hope this guide helps you understand our pricing structure and plan your projects accordingly. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out to RPS staff. For more information on specific use cases and how reserve equipment, please read How to Use the RPS.

Reservation Costs

When you reserve a machine, the cost is determined by the type of machine and the duration of your reservation. Our pricing reflects the upkeep and maintenance required to keep our equipment in top working condition. In the case of some equipment such as 3D Printers, it also includes the average cost of material used per hour of printing. Given that 1 credit is equal to $1.00, here are the reservation costs for our most popular machines:

Fabrication Equipment

  • 3D Scanners (all types): FREE! (training still required)
  • Vacuum Former: FREE! (training still required)
  • Sandblasting Cabinet: FREE! (training still required)
  • Ultrasonic Cleaner: FREE! (training still required)
  • CO2 Laser Cutter: $1.75 per hour
  • 3D Printer (Filament): $1.25 per hour
  • 3D Printer (MSLA Resin): $2.75 per hour
  • 3D Printer (SLS Nylon 12 Powder): $5.50 per hour
  • 3D Printer (PEEK Filament): $6.0 per hour
  • WAZER Waterjet Cutter: $15.00 per hour
  • CNC Router: $15.00 per hour
  • Plasma Cutter: $15.00 per hour

Testing Equipment

  • Hardness Tester (Rockwell): $1.00 per hour
  • Hardness Tester (Vickers/Knoop): $1.00 per hour
  • Cress Double Furnace: $1.00 per hour
  • Environmental Testing Chamber: $1.00 per hour
  • Fume Hood for Non-Corrosive Chemicals: $1.00 per hour
  • Sample Polishing Machine: $1.00 per hour
  • VHX-600 Digital Video Microscope: $1.00 per hour

Purchasing Materials

In addition to machine reservation costs, you may need to purchase materials for your projects. We offer a wide range of materials for sale in our online store.