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3D Printing

Introduction

3D printing is free for all SJSU student, faculty, and staff. 3D printing allows user to bring to life their vision by turning them into it into tangible three-dimensional objects. 3D printing takes a computer aided design (CAD) file, and fabricates it into a physical model layer by layer using selected material(s) (commonly using polymer such as PLA and ABS). We are currently using the Ultimaker 3 to manufacture all requested 3D models.

Note: All files must be submitted with proper dimensions (we only print at a 1:1 ratio).

 

Print Settings and Materials 

Material

  • Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)
  • Polylactic Acid (PLA)

Print Speed

  • 60 mm/s
  • 70 mm/s
  • 80 mm/s

Print Profile (layer height)

The print profile determines the quality of the print. We choose between  
  • Extra Fine (0.06 mm)
  • Fine (0.1 mm)
  • Normal (0.15 mm)
  • Fast (0.2 mm). 

​These values specify the height of each filament layer in your print. Prints made with thinner layers will create more detailed prints with a smoother surface. By default we go with 'Normal', however, if you print exceeds the booking time we will change the settings to 'Fast'. You may request for your print to be completed with the settings of 'Extra Fine' or 'Fine'. These settings do increase the print time substantially (6 hour limitation still applies). 

Infill Density 

Fill density is a measure of how much material will be printed inside the outer shell of the object. The percentage can be modified to conserve material and speed up print times. We typically have the value set to 10%.

  • 10%
  • 20%
  • 30%

                                                          

How it Works

As an SJSU student, faculty, or staff you are allocated one free 3D printing per month. Due to high demand, we limit the duration of each print to 6 hours maximum. To book or check out available times click here. 

How to Schedule Your Print 

1. Select an available date and time range by either clicking the, 'Schedule your print' tab, or by clicking here. After selecting an open time slot you will be required to enter your name, student/employee ID, and a valid SJSU email to complete reservation. 

2. Upload your file using this request form, your file must be in a .STL format. All files must be submitted with proper dimensions (we only print at a 1:1 ratio). In the form you will also be asked to enter in the dimensions/ratio and color of your print. We currently have the following color selections available: 

  • Black 
  • Blue  
  • Purple
  • Red
  • Silver
  • White
  • Yellow
  • Highlighter Yellow
  • Brown
  • Orange

3. Once your file(s) is submitted it will be reviewed to make sure it falls within the guidelines. You will receive an email once your print is ready for pickup (you are not required to be around for the printing process). Make sure to bring your Tower Card or a license for identification when picking up your print. 

*You may email us at librarytechtrainer@sjsu.edu for additional information about printer filaments compatible files, and other technical questions.