On this page:
Q: What 3D printers does the library have?
To know about the 3D printers available in the library, please check the 3D printers page.
Q: What type of filament is used on the printers?
A: The library offers four material options; PLA, PETG, Nylon and TPU (a flexible material) in a variety of colors. For questions about User supplied materials or experimentation other types of filament, please contact LibraryTech.
Q: What filament colors are available for printing?
A: There are currently 4 colors of PLA to choose from: Red, Blue, White, or Black. TPU and PETG do not offer color choices. Patrons may request specific colors of TPU and PETG for projects.
Q: Can I request a model to be printed with two different colors or materials?
A: Yes, the library offers to print models with up to two colors or two materials. Users may request what parts of the model are what colors or material.
Q: Where do I pick up my print?
A: Hershey campus users should pick up your prints at the library Service Desk, just like you would check out a book. University Park Program users should pick up your prints at the UPP office: CMSB Suite 308, 1850 E. Park Ave, State College.
Q: When can I pick up my print?
A: Hershey campus users can pick up your 3D prints during the library staffed hours. UP students will be informed via e-mail when the prints are available. Pick up arrangements can then be made with your librarian.
Q: Where Can I find models to print?
A: ere are model repositories available online where you can search for and download models for free. Three example repositories:
Q: How do I design my own models?
A: There are many 3d modeling programs but to start the library suggests learning TinkerCAD. The library offers training for TinkerCAD and other free 3d modeling software, contact LibraryTech for more information.
Q: Does the library offer 3D scanning?
A: Yes, the library operates a 3d scanner for small to medium sized objects. To request a 3d scan please contact LibraryTech.
Q: Is there a promotional period?
A: Yes, your first 100 grams are free.
Q: How can I pay for my prints?
A: You can pay for your 3D printed objects using LionCash+ or Cash. For UPC students, checks are currently the only payment option for University Park. If you are planning a course or department project that will require a lot of filament, you can pay using department budget number. You will be charged per user per filament use so that each person still receives their free 100 grams. Please contact Amy Herr for using the department budget number.
Q: Can I purchase my own filament?
A: If you have a large project, you may be able to purchase and use your own filament. Contact LibraryTech to further discuss this option.
Q: What if my print failed?
A: Print failures happen. It’s an inherent part of the 3D printing process. Print failures will fall into one of two categories: mechanical failure or faulty 3D model. If a mechanical error (i.e., filament jams, loss of power, extruder error) occurs during your print, the library will attempt to fix the mechanical failure and re-print your submission. However, print failures due to faulty models cannot be fixed by the library. You will be notified if the object cannot be printed in its current form and if the model needs to be fixed before resubmitting.
Q: What are supports and why do they count towards the cost of the print?
A: Supports are created by the slicing software to help print models with overhangs. If no supports are put in place on certain overhanging structures, then the model may sag, form spaghetti like structures, or completely fail. Supports can be easily removed after the print and the library tries to print each model with the minimum support required to ensure a quality print. Supports, brims and rafts are counted towards the cost of your print since they use up extra material, and are required for some prints.
Q: How do I remove rafts and supports?
A: Most rafts and supports can be removed by hand; however some might require additional tools. The library has 3D printing finishing tools (i.e., plyers, wire cutters, etc) available to finish your print.
