The Beginning of Our Innovation
Our journey began in 2018 with a vision to develop 3D printing technology using the resources available in the local market.
I, Naveeth Malinga Liyanage, started developing our own small-scale 3D printers using locally available electronic components, mechanical accessories and materials.
At a time when advanced 3D printing technology was not easily accessible, we took a different approach. Instead of simply purchasing ready-made machines, we worked on developing our own printer systems, programming individual firmware configurations and creating custom software for slicing 3D models.
It was the beginning of our journey into independent engineering, software development and additive manufacturing.
Innovation During the COVID-19 Pandemic
When the COVID-19 pandemic emerged, we redirected our engineering capabilities towards developing innovative solutions for challenging times.
We developed a COVID-19-related protective face-mask concept and explored innovative approaches to protective technology.
Our work also extended into research and development involving a proposed 222 nm far-UVC virus-inactivation mechanism.
During this period, our fully 3D-printed face-mask development received recognition and a recommendation from Dr. Jayaruwan Bandara, Director of the Medical Research Institute (MRI), Sri Lanka, as shared in our project history.
Our 222 nm technology work also attracted academic attention, including interest from Professor Rosa.
These experiences strengthened our commitment to research, engineering and technology development.
Historical project photographs
Growing Through Engineering and Manufacturing
What began as a small engineering initiative gradually developed into a professional 3D printing and manufacturing operation.
We expanded our capabilities across industrial-grade 3D printing, professional 3D modelling and product design, custom firmware and machine development, 3D scanning and reverse engineering, functional prototyping, custom and bulk manufacturing, and advanced engineering materials and applications.
Advanced Manufacturing
Today, SpecialPrinters 3D Lab (Pvt) Ltd continues to transform engineering ideas into physical products through advanced additive manufacturing technology.
Our History
Questions about our journey
The story behind Sri Lanka's 3D printing and additive manufacturing operation, from 2018 to today.
When did SpecialPrinters 3D Lab start in Sri Lanka?
+
Our journey began in 2018, when we started developing our own small-scale 3D printers using locally available electronic components, mechanical accessories and materials, together with individual firmware configurations and custom slicing software.
Who founded SpecialPrinters 3D Lab?
+
The company grew out of an independent engineering initiative started in 2018 by Naveeth Malinga Liyanage, who developed our first locally assembled 3D printer systems and the software used to slice 3D models.
What did SpecialPrinters 3D Lab develop during the COVID-19 pandemic?
+
During the pandemic we developed a fully 3D-printed protective face-mask concept and researched a proposed 222 nm far-UVC virus-inactivation mechanism. Our face-mask development received recognition and a recommendation from Dr. Jayaruwan Bandara, Director of the Medical Research Institute (MRI) Sri Lanka, and our 222 nm work attracted academic interest, including from Professor Rosa.
What 3D printing services do you provide today?
+
Today we provide industrial-grade 3D printing, professional 3D modelling and product design, custom firmware and machine development, 3D scanning and reverse engineering, functional prototyping, and custom and bulk manufacturing in advanced engineering materials.
Do you deliver 3D printing work outside Sri Lanka?
+
Yes. From our production facility in Kadawatha, Gampaha we produce parts for customers across Sri Lanka and ship international and export orders worldwide.