3D Printing
The CPL offers 3D printing services across multiple devices: Our Lulzbot Mini2 and Prusa MK3 are used for primary FDM filament requests. A Lulzbot Mini1 and Lulzbot Taz 6 are available for tech demos and overrun printing. All resin requests will be processed on the Formlabs Form3.
3D requests should be submitted as STL files at the size requested, with optional OBJ compatibility. CPL Staff will use Cura and Prusa Slicers for the automatic generation of supports and slicing for filament prints, and Preform for manual generation of supports for SLA resin prints. 3D mesh files with minor broken geometry or inverted normals will be passed through Fusion360 in an attempt to make the file printable, but more significant file issues will be the responsibility of the patron to resolve on discovery.
Objects designed for printing on our filament printers should note the physical limitations of our machines compared to the elements of their 3D model. All overhangs will require supports. The smallest XY detail is controlled by our nozzle width of .4mm, while the smallest Z depth detail is controlled by a stepper motor specificity of .14mm layer heights. Sub 1mm gaps or surface lines are subject to fill or detail loss by thermal expansion of the melted plastic. Anything smaller than these measurements may be lost or altered by the physical process of 3D printing.
Most single object requests can be completed in 3 to 5 business days. Requests containing multiple parts, or during high traffic time periods may take longer. CPL Staff will contact patrons with estimates if outside the 3-5 day window, or if issues arise during processing. Prints not picked up within one week of completion are subject to a fine on the patron's library account. Prints not picked up after the end of a semester will have a fine placed on the patron account and the print will be recycled.
The library's printers, and all other systems, may be used only for lawful purposes. Patrons will not be permitted to use the 3D printers to create material that is:
Patrons must comply with the University of Nebraska Memorandum 16: Policy for Responsible Use of University Computers and Information Systems.
The CPL will not print full-size or life-size props or elements of such props that resemble weaponry or could be construed as weaponry. This includes accessories or portions of accessories intended to connect to paintball, airsoft, or replica firearms.
Functionality, fitting, and finish will be the responsibility of the patron after the CPL presents a known-good, static object printed from a patron’s files. The UNO CPL hopes to be of any help in guiding patrons to that point.
The CPL will not engage in mass production or replication runs of any single entity. Academically-linked prototyping and creative experimentation is fully within our mission and capacity, but requests approaching the specs of a commercial production run should seek alternate solutions.
The library reserves the right to refuse any 3D print request.