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3D Printing

Harrell Health Science Library: Research and Learning Commons provides the following 3D printing software & equipment for all faculty, staff, and students.

Featured Software:

Featured Equipment:

1. Create or find a model

To create a 3D model, use the featured 3D modeling software in the library or the 3D scanner. To find an existing model, search through the free repositories. When finished, save your model as a .stl, .obj, .amf, .ply, or .gcode file.

Free 3D Modeling Software
  • Tinkercad: Free web-based 3D design software that is easy to learn and simple to use.
  • Blender: A free professional 3D content-creation application, with a wide array of features. Blender has a significant learning curve. However, it can be used to create animated films, visual effects, art, 3D printed models, interactive 3D applications, and even video games. Consult with our in-house graphic designer.
Free 3D Printing Repositories
  • Thingiverse: A universe of digital designs available for download and 3D printing.
  • NIH 3D Print Exchange: A collection of biomedical 3D models, including prosthetics, neuroscience, heart library, and molecule of the month.
  • PDB-101: An online portal for exploring the world of proteins and nucleic acids. The diverse shapes and functions of biological macromolecules help explain all aspects of biomedicine and agriculture, from protein synthesis to health and disease to biological energy.

2. Request a print

Fill in the 3D Printing Request form to have your models printed by the Library Tech team. The supported file formats are .STL and .OBJ. If you have any questions, please contact Library Tech.

3. Pick up finished print

  • Your print will be processed and you will receive an email notifying you when your printed object is available for pickup at the library service desk.
  • Hershey campus users can pick up your 3D printed objects at the library service desk during the library staffed hours. University Park Program users can pick up print at the UPP office: CMSB Suite 308, 1850 E. Park Ave, State College.
  • We are charging with below rates simply to recuperate the cost of the filament. Your first 100 grams are free. Check FAQs for more details.
3D Printing Materal Rates
Material New rate starting 4/1/2024 ($/gram)
PLA .07
PET .07
TPU .08
PA (Nylon) .15
PVA .16