FabLab

The FabLab is a shared workshop that brings together equipment and skills to support, train and help everyone with their projects. It opened its doors to the entire campus community in September 2024. Version 1.0 will provide a space conducive to innovation and creativity.

Facilities planned for phase 1

MECHANICS
 
  • CNC metal machines
  • standard machining
3D
 
  • 3D printers
  • FDM printers
  • SLA printers
CUTTING
 
  • laser cutting/engraving
METAL
  • metalworking equipment: cutting, forming, welding
TOOLS
  • power tools
  • hand tools
MOULDING
  • Thermoforming
  • Silicone moulding

The equipment in these areas will be gradually extended, and other facilities will also be opened, as well as:

  • collaborative working and meeting areas
  • computer workstations with design and modelling software
  • safety equipment and personal protective equipment

Phase 2

Phase 2 of the FabLab project covers 350 m² of the I Building and aims to create a collaborative environment that incorporates both a digital manufacturing area and a mechanical manufacturing area.

In this phase, these two distinct areas will be developed, giving users access to a variety of technologies, such as 3D printing, laser cutting and machining and metalworking equipment. The digital manufacturing space will be designed to foster creativity and innovation, while the mechanical manufacturing space will be given over to projects requiring machining skills.

This integrated approach aims to meet the diverse needs of users and promote synergy between the different manufacturing techniques.

Access and services

The Fablab is open to:

  • Centrale Nantes students.
  • All Centrale Nantes staff
  • Incubated start-ups and partner companies.

Access will be free for members of the school community and fee-paying for external users.
A contribution to the cost of materials and consumables may be requested.
For projects that cannot be carried out independently by users, services will be provided as follows:

 
Teaching needs or internal R&D purposes or internal support services

the terms and conditions will be agreed on a case-by-case basis.
Internal services for projects in receipt of funding

Quotes will be based on the cost of materials (if not supplied), the cost of specific tools, if necessary, and the time spent at an hourly rate of €44/hour, regardless of the equipment used.
External services (start-ups and partner companies)

Quotes will be based on the cost of materials (if not supplied), the cost of specific tools, if necessary, and the time spent at an hourly rate of €65/hour, regardless of the equipment used.
 

Opening times

Fab lab opening times
Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri
9 am - 12 pm On request Open On request On request On request
12 pm - 2 pm On request On request On request On request On request

2 pm - 5 pm		 On request Open On request Open On request

Existing and available equipment

  • 3D FDM printers for printing
  • PLA, PET, Nylon, carbon-fibre filled PET
  • Conventional lathes and milling machines
  • Numerically controlled lathes and milling machines
  • Metalworking equipment
  • Hand-held tools
  • Power tools
  • Materials and hardware

Many other pieces of equipment are accessible through the internal and external network of other Nantes University fablabs.

Any questions or suggestions for materials?

You can submit your requests now, even if they cannot be met immediately. This proactive approach will help us to refine your needs and put in place the most appropriate equipment.
Contact: centralab26ceeef3-0c04-4870-8817-d4e1aab4ed81@ec-nantes.fr

Where to find the Fablab

Published on July 22, 2024 Updated on May 21, 2025