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About Makerspace Resources

Information about equipment available in the PUL Makerspace, how to get started, software to use, and links for project ideas.

3D Printers


  • Fused deposition modeling (FDM), single extruder
  • Filament: PLA
  • Maximum build volume: 11.8" (length) x 12.0" (width) x 18.0" (height) 
  • MakerBot Z-18 User Manual

 

   

 

MakerBot Method

Access and Use

To use the 3D printers, training is required. Sign up for a training here. 

We use Canvas for the online portion of our 3D printer trainings. You may self-enroll in our Canvas course using this link.

Once you're trained, you can make a reservation to use the 3D printers here.

Reservation length should correspond with the duration of your 3D print job. Get a time estimate for your print using MakerBot Print or CloudPrint.

3D Printer Guidelines

To use the 3D printers, you must complete a one-time training session. Sign up for a training here. 

We can support print jobs up to 12 hours per print.

Patrons may reserve 1 (one) printer at a time.

Reservation length should correspond with the duration of your 3D print job. Get a time estimate for your print using MakerBot Print or CloudPrint.

There is no charge for 3D printer filament. You must use library-supplied filament.

PUL Makerspace 3D printers are available for research, academic, and non-commercial purposes.

Our 3D printers are great for prototyping and iterating, not for mass production.

Users must abide by copyright and trademark laws. 

No weapons, parts for weapons, weapon accessories, or weapon replicas may be produced with any Makerspace equipment.

Makerspace employees reserve the right to deny or cancel any job that does not comply with policy.

FAQs

Can I change the filament out myself?

No. Talk to a Makerspace staff member and we'll change out the filament for you.

I was trained to use the 3D printers at another location on campus. Does that mean I can use PUL Makerspace’s 3D printers?

If you are trained at Keller Center Makerspace or StudioLabyou may use the 3D printers at the PUL Makerspace and vise versa. Training does not carry over from other labs not listed here.

Can I bring in my own filament?

You must use library-supplied filament only.

Can I use a different filament color?

Yes. Talk to a Makerspace staff member about your color options.

Why is my project printing poorly?

There are a few possibilities. There could be a problem with your design, with your print settings, or with the 3D printer itself. A Makerspace staff member can help assess and correct the issue. if the 3D printer needs maintenance, we may suggest you print on another printer until the issue with the printer is resolved.

Will Makerspace staff remove supports and rafts for me?

No. It is your responsibility to remove supports and rafts from your print. We have files, pliers, and other tools that can help with this.

What if I want to use filament other than PLA?

With the exception of our Method printer, our MakerBots only print with PLA. Talk to a makerspace staff member about your material options with the Method. 

What’s the difference between the 3D printers?

The main difference is the bed size. Our Z-18 is the largest and can accommodate objects up to 18" tall. The Replicator+ and the Z-18 are both single-extruder printers that build objects similarly and only print with PLA filament. The Method printer is dual-extruder, prints with TPLA (a stronger, or "tough", PLA), and can print with dissolvable supports made from PVA. We can also use an experimental extruder with the Method to print with different types of filament, such as Nylon.