The Concept Forge at the AMMC

What is the Concept Forge?

The Concept Forge at the LCCC Advanced Manufacturing & Material Center is a makers space available to you.

At The Concept Forge, we provide cutting-edge technology 
and expertise to bring your ideas from concept to reality. 
Whether you’re a student, hobbyist or professional, our wide range of services and state-of-the-art equipment ensures that you have everything you need for prototyping, product development and production.

General FDM Printing 

(Fused Deposition Modeling) 

FDM is a popular 3D printing method that builds objects layer by layer by heating and extruding thermoplastic filament. This method is ideal for creating strong, durable parts and prototypes. We use 12 Flashforge Adventurer 3s, Ultimaker S3 and S5, Ender 3 V3se’s, and Markforged Mark 2, 5, and 7 printers, capable of printing in PLA, ASA, TPU, PETG, and ABS.

High-End Precision FDM Printing 

(Fused Deposition Modeling) 

Our Markforged printers (X5s and X7s) provide high-end FDM printing with Onyx (nylon carbon fiber), glass-filled nylon, and fire-resistant nylon. These printers can reinforce parts with Kevlar, fiberglass, and carbon fiber, making them perfect for industrial applications. Managed with the Markforged Eiger software, this setup delivers precise control and high-strength parts.

PolyJet Full-Color Printing 

PolyJet technology jets liquid photopolymer onto a build tray, layer by layer, which is then cured by UV light. It’s known for its exceptional detail and smooth finishes. Our Stratasys J55 printer delivers full-color, multi-material parts with Pantone color features, making it ideal for detailed prototypes and design validation.

Metal 3D Printing 

(Sintering) 

Sintering is a process where powdered metal is heated (but not melted) to bond the particles together. Our Markforged Metal X system enables printing in tool steel, stainless steel, copper, Inconel, and other metals, allowing for the production of complex, strong metal parts.

SLS Metal Printing 

(Selective Laser Sintering) 

SLS uses a laser to sinter powdered material, in this case, metal, to build parts layer by layer. The Xactmetal printer enables SLS metal printing in stainless steel and other materials, offering a high-performance option for durable, end-use parts in demanding industries.

Laser Engraving 

We offer high-precision engraving with the San Antonio laser for metal and the Epilog Fusion Edge Pro system for engraving on materials such as wood, leather, and acrylic. These systems deliver detailed, permanent markings on various surfaces.

Large Format Printing 

Our Epson SureColor 40600, combined with the Graphtec cutter, provides large-format printing and cutting for vinyl stickers, banners, and more. This service is perfect for creating professional signage and promotional materials with sharp, vibrant results.

Large Format Sublimation Printing 

Our Epson 6470H sublimation printer produces vivid, durable designs on textiles and hard surfaces. Perfect for custom apparel, banners, and specialty products, this process delivers brilliant, long-lasting prints.

3D Scanning Services 

(Artec LEO & Einscan Pro 2X)

We offer high-precision 3D scanning services using the Artec LEO and Einscan Pro 2X scanners. The Artec LEO provides wireless, handheld scanning for large-scale, fast, and accurate models, perfect for reverse engineering and quality inspection. The Einscan Pro 2X offers versatile scanning modes for capturing intricate details with high accuracy, suitable for product design, healthcare, and art. Together, these scanners ensure the capture of highly detailed digital models of real-world objects for any application.

Monthly Memberships

We offer flexible membership tiers, allowing affordable access to our advanced equipment. Need help using the machines? We've got you and are here to help when you need us.

• Single: $50
• Family (4 people): $100
• Small Business (up to 6 people): $200
• Business (up to 16 people): $500
• 62+ Golden Privilege: $28
• LCCC Employees: Contact us for pricing

 

Individual Classes & Workshops

The Concept Forge hosts monthly classes designed to create seasonal projects as well as teach you how to use the equipment.

 

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Commissions and Product Prototyping

We accept commissions for custom work and offer hands-on product prototyping services. Our skilled team uses Fusion 360 and Blender to assist with design and ensure your project reaches its full potential.