Singapore Institute of Manufacturing Technology (SIMTech) – Student Intern

The Singapore Institute of Manufacturing Technology (SIMTech), a research institute of the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), develops advanced manufacturing technologies and talent to strengthen the competitiveness of Singapore industry. SIMTech works with multinational corporations, SMEs and public-sector partners across aerospace, electronics, precision engineering, medical technology and other manufacturing sectors.

Internship Project Overview
This internship focuses on pellet-extrusion additive manufacturing using Composite Extrusion Modelling (CEM) and Fused Granular Fabrication (FGF). The intern will support the development of a structured workflow linking feedstock preparation, printing parameters, in-process data and printed-part quality. The work may contribute to quality assessment of feedstock, quality in production and quality control post-production.

The project is suitable for a student who enjoys hands-on machine work, experimental design, data analysis and iterative problem solving. Depending on progress, the intern may investigate engineering thermoplastics and filled or recycled pellet feedstocks, build calibration specimens, and help establish repeatable process windows for prototype fabrication.
Key Responsibilities 1. CEM / FGF Printing and Process Development
· To learn and assist on preparing pellet printers, material feed system, dryer and build platform for safe and repeatable trials.

· Conduct printing experiments covering barrel and nozzle temperature, screw speed, material flow, layer height, print speed, cooling and bed conditions.

· Create or modify CAD models, slicing strategies, calibration coupons and demonstrator parts.
2. Feedstock and Material Quality
· Prepare, dry and handle neat, filled, reinforced or recycled thermoplastic pellets according to laboratory procedures.

· Record feedstock condition and relevant properties, such as moisture history, pellet consistency, thermal behaviour and flow response.

· Link material variations and properties to extrusion stability, bead geometry, interlayer bonding and final-part performance.
3. Characterisation, Validation and Documentation
· Perform dimensional and visual inspection and support mechanical, thermal or microstructural characterisation as required.

· Analyse results using appropriate statistics and present clear comparisons between material and process conditions.

· Maintain experimental records, risk assessments and operating procedures; prepare a final attachment report and presentation.
Candidate Profile
Education: Currently pursuing a Diploma, Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical, Materials, Manufacturing, Mechatronics, Aerospace, Chemical/Polymer Engineering, Data Engineering, or a related discipline.

Essential attributes: Hands-on attitude; careful experimental practice; independent thinking; active communication; willingness to troubleshoot equipment and document results clearly.

Preferred skills: Basic CAD and slicing; polymer extrusion or additive manufacturing; laboratory testing; Excel, Python or MATLAB for data analysis.

Advantageous experience: FDM/FFF, CEM/FGF, pellet or filament extrusion, material drying, machine APIs, dashboards, design of experiments, image analysis or mechanical testing.
What You Will Gain
· Hands-on experience with industrial and research-scale pellet-extrusion additive manufacturing.

· Practical understanding of the relationship between polymer feedstock, extrusion behaviour, printing parameters and part quality.

· Experience working in a multidisciplinary R&D environment and converting experiments into engineering recommendations.

· A portfolio-ready project with measurable technical deliverables and industrial relevance.