3D Printer Resources

3D Printer Info

The Library owns and operates several different 3D printer models for library programs and the 3D print service.

CLICK HERE FOR BROCHURE (PDF)

Makerbot Replicator+
in the Children’s Department & Teen Center

Makerbot Replicator

Build Volume: 11.6 X 7.6 X 6.5 inches

This printer offers a larger print volume and added filament colors.

Makerbot Method
in the Adult Department

Makerbot Method

Build Volume: 6.0 L x 7.5 W x 7.75 H inches

This printer offers a water-soluble support material for detailed prints.

Libraries Lend out 3D printers to make PPE

Click here to view the Newsday article.

3D Printer Farm at SCLS PPE

The Library believes in integrating new technologies into programs and everyday life to the best of our ability.

Once it has been determined that the file does not violate the Library’s Policy on 3D Printing, your project will be included in a queue to be printed. To learn more about 3D printing and design, continue to read below or view our Events Calendar to register for a program (offered periodically).

If you are interested in having a 3D design printed, please review the resources below and then click on the link at the bottom to submit your design.

Preparing your File

Cloudwards’ Guide to 3D Graphics Software

1. Creating or editing a model for the 3D Printer

You can design your object in any 3D modeling software of your choosing. Below is a list of Free 3D modeling software and open source model websites.

Ultimate Kids Guide to 3D Printing     |     Beginner’s Guide To 3D Printing

Free 3D Modeling Software

Recommended! Tinkercad – a browser-based 3D design platform, now part of Autodesk (free version available).

Blender – open source 3D animation suite.

OpenSCAD – free software for creating solid 3D CAD models. Useful for creating models of machine parts.

List of additional free software packages from 3ders.com.

Free Open Source 3D Model Websites

You can search for pre-existing models on the Internet to print as they are, or to modify using 3D modeling software.

Recommended! Thingiverse – MakerBot’s searchable design library community.

3D Warehouse – Sketchup’s searchable design library.

3D Modeling Tutorials

How to fix and repair your 3D files (Shapeways)

Software Tutorials (Shapeways)

3D modeling for beginners (Shapeways)

2. Formatting your File for the 3D Printer

File Type

Export your model as a stereolithography file, with an STL extension (.stl).

Dimensions

Build volume

Makerbot Replicator+ 11.6 L X 7.6 W X 6.5 H inches

Makerbot Method 6.0 L x 7.5 W x 7.75 H inches

Resolution

Please note that larger jobs will cost more and will require more time to print. You can specify a different quality level by making a note under “Description & Special Requests” on the 3D Printed Object Request Form.

Multiple parts

Please note that multiple parts may cause a delay in printing your object. If your model includes multiple parts, make each as a separate STL file. You can submit each model as part of the same print request.

Make a solid design

The surface of your 3D model must be watertight. This means all faces of the object must construct one or more closed volume entities. Gaps or holes in the model will cause it to print incorrectly.

See Rhino’s How do I Make a Solid Model.

Geometry check

Check your design for holes, gaps, or other problems before submission. Numerous third party tools can help you fix geometry problems, including:

  • NetFabb – provides a cloud base service and free downloadable software that can check you files
  • MeshLab – open source software for checking files

Shapeways offers a tutorial for fixing and repairing 3D models using these services.

3. Submitting your Model to the 3D Printer

Once your model is ready to go, make a 3D printing request and upload your STL file. A staff member from the Library will contact you within five business days with an estimate for the total cost ($1 per hour) and turnaround time and also let you know if there are any problems with the file.