3D Printing

Who can submit 3D models and receive prints?

3D modeling and printing services are made available through the Student Technology Fee, and are available to CSU Pueblo students. Each semester, every enrolled student receives 500 grams of printing filament to use for class and personal projects. Students who exceed this limit will be responsible for bringing in their own filament to complete future projects. Print requests are processed on a first-come, first-served basis. Priority will be given to requests submitted for class projects. If an item is needed by a deadline, we recommend submitting it two weeks prior to the due date.

How do I get my file printed?

Users will need to fill out and submit the 3D Printing Request Form along with their file. A confirmation email to the address provided will be sent to verify that the submission has been received. Once the file has been printed, staff will send another email informing the user of the completion of the job. If you have several different files to print, please submit each of these separately by filling out a separate 3D Printing Request Form for each print. All submissions are subject to approval by the Innovation Lab and Innovation Lab Supervisor.

There may be times when a printer is malfunctioning, being repaired, or is being used for an event or a course. During such times, the 3D printer may be unavailable for use and there will be a delay in approving submissions and printing objects. Printed objects will be kept at the LINC Innovation Lab. After two weeks, objects will become the property of the University Library and may be displayed or disposed of at that time. 

For more information, check the University Library 3DPrinting and Scanning Policy.

What is 3D printing? How does it work?

3D printing is the process of making a physical object from a digital model. Also called additive manufacturing, the physical model is built up one layer at a time. Our 3D printer feeds a plastic filament through a heated nozzle which melts the plastic. Computer-controlled motors move the nozzle around to create the shape of a layer, which hardens immediately. Objects are built this way, one layer at a time, from the bottom up.

What are some practical uses of 3D printing?

There are many practical applications for 3D printing, from aerospace and automotive engineering to prosthetics and other medical uses. 3D printing enables rapid prototyping of design concepts and functional, working models. Additionally, it is used for low-volume, custom, or on-demand manufacturing.

What software can you use to make printable 3D models?

Many different programs can produce printable 3D models. Most 3D modeling software will output the STL file type. Some popular options include SolidWorks, Inventor, 3DS Max, Blender, Creo, AutoCAD, Rhino 3D, Sketchup and Tinkercad. For beginners, we recommend starting with Tinkercad. It is web-based, optimized for 3D printing, and easy to get started with. Free 3D printable files can be downloaded from Thingiverse.