Allevi desktop model3D bioprinterIt is a practical equipment designed specifically for laboratories, featuring high cost-effectiveness, easy operation, and multifunctionality, which can help you easily meet various bioprinting needs from tissue engineering to drug testing.
How to operate the Allevi desktop 3D bioprinter:
1、 Preparation before printing
Model preparation:
Design the model using CAD software and export it as an STL file.
Alternatively, medical imaging (such as CT scans) can be converted into STL files using software such as Mimics.
You can also download ready-made STL models directly from the database.
Material preparation:
Choose bio ink based on the type of tissue you want to print (such as skin, cartilage), such as gelatin, collagen, or PLA.
Load the material into the BD syringe (5mL or 10mL), push the print head forward, and ensure sterile operation.
2、 Printing parameter settings
Slice parameters:
Cut the STL file into G-code using the supporting software, and set the layer height, nozzle size, and printing speed.
For example, when printing vascular networks, the layer height can be set lower and the speed slower to ensure fine structure.
Printing parameters:
Adjust the print head temperature (single/dual head system room temperature -120 ℃, 3/6-head system 4 ℃ -160 ℃) and platform temperature (room temperature -60 ℃) according to the material.
The driving pressure is generally set between 0-120 PSI, and the pressure of materials with high viscosity can be increased slightly.
3、 Start printing
Device startup:
Plug in the power, turn on the switch, and let the printer self-test.
Select 'Return to Origin' and move the nozzle back to its starting position for easy leveling.
Leveling the hot bed:
Turn off the stepper motor, place an A4 paper between the nozzle and the hot bed, rotate the adjusting nut so that the paper can move just enough but with some resistance.
Flatten all four corners to ensure that the model adheres firmly during printing.
Import model:
Insert the TF card with the stored G-code file into the printer card slot.
Select the model file in the software, confirm that the parameters are correct, and then you can start printing.
4、 Post printing processing
Retrieve the model:
After printing is complete, move the nozzle back to its initial position and then turn off the printer.
Be careful when removing the model and be careful not to touch the hot bed or nozzle to avoid burns.
Cleaning and disinfection:
Rinse the printed tissue with sterile physiological saline or PBS to remove any remaining ink.
If necessary, UV or blue light can be used to cure the structure for greater stability.