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3D Printers

3D printing is a process that allows you to create physical objects from a three-dimensional digital file. The Library’s 3D printers use Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), which brings a digital design to life layer by layer.

A Few Things You Can Make

  • Prototypes
  • Replacement parts
  • Jewelry and other accessories
  • Toys

What’s Available?

The following 3D printers are available at The Spark:

  • 3 Original Prusa i3 MK3S+ with default 0.4mm nozzle
  • 1 Original Prusa i3 MK3S with alternate 0.6mm nozzle
  • 2 Original Prusa MK4S with standard HF0.4mm nozzle
  • 1 LulzBot TAZ 6 with alternate high-flow 1.2mm nozzle

What You’ll Need

  • Filament:
    • What We Provide: The Library provides PLA filament in limited colors for your use during your appointment time.
    • If You Want Different Filament: If you require a different filament type or color, please speak with Library staff about providing your own. Library staff will need to review any filament you bring to be sure that it will work with our space and equipment.
  • Laptop:
    • What We Provide: During your appointment, you will have access to a laptop with PrusaSlicer (for Prusa printers) and Cura LE (for Lulzbot printers) which you can use to transfer files and adjust your print settings.
    • If You Bring Your Own: You may also bring your own. Just be sure to have PrusaSlicer or Cura LE already downloaded and set up.

Project Limitations

Printer Bed Sizes:

  • Prusa i3 MK3S/MK3S+ printers: 9.84 x 8.3 x 8.3 inches (25 x 21 x 21 cm).
  • Prusa MK4S printers: 9.84 x 8.3 x 8.6 inches (25 x 21 x 22 cm).
  • LulzBot TAZ 6 printer: 11.02 x 11.02 x 9.80 inches (28 x 28 x 25 cm).

All prints must be completed during your reservation. Reservation times include the following:

  • Checking in for your reservation.
  • Preparing your file for printing.
  • Loading and unloading filament.
  • Heating and cooling.
  • Removing your project from the print bed.
  • Tidying your workspace.

Safety

  • The print nozzle and printer bed get very hot during the printing process. Do not touch either one while your project is printing.
  • You are required to actively supervise your project as it is printing.
  • Tell Library Staff immediately about any printer malfunctions.
  • Those under the age of 13 must have a parent or guardian actively supervising them while using this equipment.

How to Make a Reservation

  • Bring:
    • A library card under the name of the person who will be using the equipment.
    • A signed waiver for the person who will be using the equipment. Anyone under the age of 18 must have a parent/legal guardian sign the waiver on their behalf.
  • Complete the Makerspace Equipment Interest form.

Single Button Module

Equipment Interest Form

Where to Find Printable Files

Related Software

  • PrusaSlicer: This free software converts your 3D model into code that the Library's Prusa printers can understand. It will also tell us how long your model will take to print.
  • Cura LE: This free software converts your 3D model into code that the Library's Lulzbot printers can understand. It will also tell us how long your model will take to print.
  • Tinkercad: This free browser-based 3D modeling program is helpful for designing your own model.

File Formats

  • STL
  • Step
  • OBJ
  • G-Code
  • 3MF

Additional Resources

  • AC Library catalog results for 3D Printing
  • AC Library catalog results for 3D Modeling
  • Access LinkedIn Learning for free with your Library Card. Classes and tutorials cover a variety of topics including 3D Modeling, and Tinkercad.
  • Access Gale Presents: Udemy for free with your Library Card. Learn and improve skills across business, tech, design, and personal interests.
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