3D Printing

<span data-mce-type="bookmark" style="display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;" class="mce_SELRES_start"></span>Loading…

I don’t know anything about 3D printing. Can I get help?

Sure thing! Use the form to contact the library to set up an appointment.

Contact the Library About 3D Printing

I’m a teacher. Can I use the 3D printer with my class?

Absolutely! Although the printer stays housed in the library, we can bring it to visit a class, and can certainly partner with teachers on incorporating 3D printing into lessons in a variety of ways. Contact us to arrange a consultation.

What is 3D printing?

A 3D printer is able to transform a computerized three dimensional model into a physical object by converting the model into “slices”, which are then stacked on top of each other in layers. Different types of 3D printers use plastic, resin, metal, concrete or even chocolate! The Alamosa Public Library’s 3D printer is a NOVA3D BENE4, and makes objects of UV-cured resin. This printer can create models, minis, replacement parts and prototypes. 3D printing is already revolutionizing medicine, space travel and engineering. What will we be able to do in the future? That’s up to you!

Starting June 18th, this printer will be open for use by the public for a nominal fee

How do I reserve a session to print my design?

In order to print, you will need to schedule a consultation with a staff person. After the consultation, when your design is finalized, it will be added to the print queue. Please click here for more details

How big is the printer?

Maximum size of objects our 3d Printer can print is 130x80x150mm

What kind of material does the printer use? Is it safe?

The printer uses Elegoo photopolymer resin. It is not safe for food use – please do not use it to make plates, cups or anything a person or pet would eat off of.

How long does it take to print?

Length of your print depends on many factors, including size and complexity of your print. Larger prints can take multiple hours to complete. A “slicer” – a program that converts your model into layers for the machine to print – can give you an estimated printing time.

What is “slicing” and how do I slice my print?

“Slicing” refers to the process by which software converts a 3-dimensional object model into instructions for the 3D printer to follow. Slicing software is available on the public computers. The available software is NOVAMaker.

What happens when my print is done?

Patrons will be notified when their print job has been completed, and all files will be deleted from the system at that time.

Projects which are not picked up within seven (7) Calendar days following notification become the property of the Alamosa Public Library and may not be retained at Library staff discretion.

Items must be picked up by the individual who printed them or the alternative person designated on the form.

What if my print fails?

Printing designs are not guaranteed to come out as intended and can be affected by any number of variables, such as size, complexity and overhanging areas. The Library does not refund printing fees for completed items which do not come out as intended due to options selected by the individual requesting the 3D print, including but not limited to scale, quality, design, required support material, etc.

If a model is found to be printing improperly, Library staff will attempt to print the model a second time. After the second failed attempt, the print request will be placed on hold and the individual requesting the 3D print will be contacted. The file must be fixed before library staff will approve a 3rd attempt to print.