24 Oct, 2025
How Manipal Institute of Applied Physics Accelerated Microfabrication with BMF & Shree Rapid Technologies
Industry:
Academic Research | Photonics | Microfluidics | Applied Nanosciences
Technology:
Micro-Precision 3D Printing | BMF S140 | 10-Micron Resolution
Overview:
The Manipal Institute of Applied Physics (MIAP), part of the Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal, is a leading interdisciplinary research institute focused on photonics, nanosciences, and micro-scale technologies. To overcome limitations of conventional microfabrication methods, MIAP adopted micro-precision additive manufacturing with the BMF S140 system, implemented and supported by Shree Rapid Technologies (SRT).
Challenge:
Traditional fabrication methods for microfluidic devices presented several challenges:
- Time-consuming layer-based lamination processes
- High cost of injection molding tooling
- Limited design flexibility and iteration speed
- Difficulty in producing complex 3D microchannels and high-aspect-ratio features
MIAP required a solution capable of rapid prototyping with ultra-high precision.
Solution:
MIAP selected the BMF S140 micro-precision 3D printer through Shree Rapid Technologies.
Why BMF & SRT:
- Ability to print microfeatures down to 10 microns
- Exceptional accuracy and surface quality
- High repeatability for research validation
- Strong technical guidance and responsive support from SRT
Implementation:
The BMF S140 was deployed for:
- Microfluidic device fabrication
- Complex microstructure development
- High-precision micro-tooling for PDMS molding
Installation, training, and onboarding were completed smoothly, enabling researchers to start printing with confidence.
Results:
- Reduced prototyping lead time
- Improved accuracy and surface finish
- Ability to print complex microstructures quickly
- High repeatability without compromising design integrity
Research Impact:
The system has significantly enhanced MIAP’s prototyping speed, fabrication precision, and research flexibility, enabling rapid exploration of advanced micro-scale applications.
Customer Insight
“The investment has significantly enhanced our prototyping and research capabilities, enabling faster iteration and higher precision fabrication.”
— Vivek M, Ph.D. Research Scholar, MIAP, MAHE