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Innovation Center

3D Printing Service

First look at LulzBot's live 3D printer production line at CES 2018 - 3D Printing Industry

 

Need an item 3D printed? Read the instructions below and fill out the 3D Printer Job Submission form and WPL will print it for you!

WHAT IS 3D PRINTING AND WHY DOES THE LIBRARY OFFER THE SERVICE? 

3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is a method of creating a three-dimensional object, layer by layer, using a computer-created design. The 3D printing service at the Main Library provides the community an opportunity to experience cutting-edge technology without buying any equipment. Browse our booklist for 3D printing and modeling titles to learn more. 

HOW DO I PRINT SOMETHING? 

Step 1: Find or create a 3D item

Step 2: Submit your 3D printing job 

  • Use this 3D Printer Job Submission form to upload your .stl file to be printed. Please submit only one request at a time. If you have another request, you may submit it after the previous request has been picked up. 

Step 3: Pick up your item 

  • You will be notified when the job is complete.
  • Prints must be picked up at the Newspapers & Magazines service desk by the individual who submitted them using valid ID or a current WPL library card within 7 days of notification. 

Step 4:  3D Printing Service Guidelines

  • The Library will not approve print requests that are:
    • illegal under local, state, or federal law
    • unsafe or dangerous
    • inappropriate for a public setting
    • subject to copyright, patent, or trademark protection
  • All designs must be submitted in an .stl file format and will be printed in PLA filament.
  • The Library cannot guarantee model quality or stability of designs.
  • Users must pick up their prints within 7 days of notification.
  • The service is available for all ages. A parent or guardian must submit and pick up 3D prints for children under 12 years of age. 
  • The Library will not save your .stl file once your submission is printed.

Step 5: Cost

  • To help you get started with 3D printing technology, the library will print your first file for FREE. 
  • After the first free print, the cost is 15 cents per gram. Payment for the item will be made at the time of pick up and the Library will only accept CASH payment.
  • Print jobs will be completed during library hours. The Library makes no commitment to being able to produce print submissions within a specific timeframe. If you have not heard from us within five business days, please assume we are having difficulty fulfilling your request. Please check for errors in your email address and resend your request. 

Step 6: 3D printer model and available colors

  •  The Library has a Lulzbot TAZ Workhorse 3D Printer and PLA filament in the following colors:

Step 7: Limitations

  • The Library can only print a design that falls within these parameters:
    • is no larger than 13 cm x 13 cm x 13 cm
    • takes less than 4 hours to print
  • A librarian will let you know if your file is beyond the limitations. If you would like to estimate the size and print time of your file yourself, follow instructions here. 
  • Please note, PLA filament is not considered food safe.