Microfluidic channels

thingiverse

I ran this test on my Form 2 printer to see if it was possible to print a micro/millifluidic system, and I wanted to try out several geometries to see if they could be printed and if they offered any advantage. I'm particularly interested in a channel with a twisted three-dimensional structure that simulates natural capillaries, which is beneficial when moving cells around the system. I'm happy to report that at least the first stage worked, and all channels were printed, cleaned out, and allowed liquid to flow through them. Cell studies will have to wait until later. Print Settings Printer Brand: Formlabs Printer: Form 1 Rafts: Yes Supports: Yes Resolution: 0.05mm Notes: This was printed on a Form 2 but this option is not available, so I selected the Form 1. Post-Printing Cleaning and coating. I used the Formlabs supplied bottle to squeeze IPA down the channels, which was a bit fiddly to do, and if you have a syringe, I suggest using that. I left it to dry and then, after ensuring the channels were clear, I cured it in the UV cabinet. I sanded down the sides to 2000 grit, although this probably wasn't worth it, and then applied an acrylic spray clear coating which allowed for easy viewing of the internal channels. How I Designed This Design I used Blender to design the part. I created a bezier curve helix and then used the simple deform and curve modifiers to create the channels.