University Libraries

3D Printing

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Key Info

  • Free for class projects and a limit of 2 personal prints per semester
  • Turnaround time varies
  • See the 3D printing guide for more info
Submit a 3D print request
Available at: 
Belk
Available to: 
  • Students
  • Faculty & Staff
Contact: 

Hannah Pope

What is 3D Printing?

3D Printing is the process of converting a 3D Model into a solid, three dimensional object. The primary type of 3D printing used in the Makerspace is the extrusion of molten plastic through the print head and deposited, layer on layer, to create the object. We also offer limited resin printing. Check out the library guide on 3D printing for more information.

Creating for a 3D printer

3D printers can help you make unique creations, prototype ideas, and solve problems. Print anything from a sculpture to a tool. You can also use 3D scanning to create an object to 3D print. Need inspiration? Check out Thingiverse or Make Magazine for some cool projects. If you have an idea but don’t quite know how to make it happen, come to the Makerspace to get started. We also offer a variety of software options to help you out!

Types of 3D printers available

The Makerspace currently has two types of 3D printers! We have Ultimaker s3/s5 and a Formlabs 3.

Ultimaker s3

The Ultimaker s3 is a small-sized desktop printer that uses PLA plastic. It can print sizes up to 9 × 7.4 × 7.9 inches. The Ultimaker s3 is the standard 3D print option and is a good choice for most average applications.

Ultimaker s5

The Ultimaker s5 is a large-sized desktop printer that uses PLA plastic. It can print sizes up to 13 × 9.4 × 11.8 inches. The Ultimaker s5 is a the standard 3D print option and is a good choice for most larger, average applications.

FormLabs Resin Printer

The FormLabs 3 is a medium-sized desktop printer that uses SLA printing with liquid resin. It can print up to  5.7 × 5.7 × 7.3 inches. The FormLabs 3 is a more expensive option and is a good choice for more durable applications with usable parts. However using the FormLabs for your print is up to the discretion of the Makerspace.

Try it out!

If you would like to try out this service, here are the steps involved:

  1. Fill out our online 3D printing form. Be sure to submit both the form and your STL file.
  2. The person in charge of 3D printing will check your file to make sure it is formatted properly, then process your order. The Makerspace will also contact you if there is an issue with your print.
  3. You will be notified via email when your print job is complete.
  4. Pick up your print from the Makerspace anytime it is open. After 30 days, any unclaimed prints will be forfeit and the Makerspace may reevaluate future 3D printing privileges.

Please note: Turn around time for this procedure varies.

Prints are free for all academic uses, however there is a limit of two personal prints per semester.

3D Modeling software

Tinkercad, Rhinoceros, Meshlab, Fusion 360, and Blender among others.

 

Find Out More about Our 3D Printing Service

  • The 3D Print Order Form has detailed guidelines for submitting a file to be printed.
  • You may stop by the Makerspace when it is open to get answers to your questions. See our webpage for hours of operation. 

Need help with 3D printing or design? Hannah Pope can be reached by email (popehl@appstate.edu) or Kai Weaver (weaverkb@appstate.edu).