Metal additive manufacturing can feel complex to approach, especially if your company is still exploring whether LPBF (Laser Powder Bed Fusion) is the right fit. At FAME Campus, we aim to lower the threshold by offering access not only to equipment, but also to expertise and learning.
Below we answer the most common questions we receive from non-member companies interested in using FAME Campus.
Do you need to be a FAME member to use FAME Campus?
No. Non-member companies can access FAME Campus facilities and expertise on a paid basis.
This makes FAME Campus a practical option for companies that want to:
- test metal additive manufacturing
- run pilot prints
- learn LPBF in practice without long-term commitments or investments.
What services are available for non-members?
Non-members have access to the full LPBF printing process, supported by an experienced operator.
Services include:
- communication and planning with the customer
- print planning and build preparation
- LPBF printing (EOS M290)
- post-processing and heat treatment
- shipment of printed parts
- reporting and documentation
You are not expected to manage the process alone — support is built in from start to finish.
How is pricing determined?
All services for non-members are offered at market-based pricing, based on transparent cost drivers:
- Operator work Covers the full printing process, from planning to reporting.
- Machine time Based on EOS M290 processing time.
- Metal powder usage Includes powder used for the part, support structures and unavoidable powder loss. Pricing depends on material type.
- Post-processing and heat treatment, if required
- Special software, if applicable
Rather than fixed packages, pricing is tailored to the specific print job and its requirements.
Is there a minimum print job?
Yes. To ensure meaningful results and learning, FAME Campus operates with a minimum print job:
- 7.5 hours of operator time
- 2 kg of metal powder (e.g. 316L, MS1 or Inconel 718)
This ensures that each project provides sufficient depth — both technically and from a learning perspective.
What materials can be used?
Commonly used materials include:
- 316L stainless steel
- MS1 tool steel
- Inconel 718
Material availability and suitability are discussed as part of the planning phase.
What is the outcome of a print job?
The outcome is more than just a printed part.
Non-member customers receive:
- insight into LPBF design and build preparation
- understanding of process limitations and opportunities
- documentation and reporting from the print
- practical learning that can be applied to future projects
For many companies, this learning aspect is as valuable as the physical part itself.
Who is FAME Campus best suited for?
FAME Campus is particularly well suited for:
- companies new to metal additive manufacturing
- teams exploring LPBF feasibility
- R&D and pilot projects
- organisations that want to build internal AM understanding
Whether your goal is learning, testing or producing a first part, FAME Campus provides a supported environment to do so.
How do you get started?
The best way to start is a conversation.
By discussing your use case, material needs and part requirements, we can determine:
- whether LPBF is suitable
- how the print could be executed
- what the scope and cost drivers would be