3D Printing

TU students can print 3D objects for academic assignments.

OTS Student Computing Services (SCS) maintains two Ultimaker 3 Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) printers that students may use to print solid objects for academic purposes. The dual-extruder printers are configured exclusively for 2.85mm PLA filament. Because 3D objects typically require very long print times, we have established the request-based workflow described below rather than the direct booking approach we use for other SCS resources.  

explore 3D Printing

Try it for free!

SCS will support 3D printing for academic purposes, and initially there won’t be a charge for the service. During the spring 2019 and fall 2019 semesters, SCS encourages all students to try this technology for free and explore its potential to enhance their studies.

How to design for 3D printing

Original designs can be created using TinkerCad or other popular 3D design tools (All3DP). Rhinoceros is available on Windows computers in the SCS labs. Print-ready object files can be downloaded from a number of popular online sources (All3DP).

What you need to know before printing 

  • SCS does not support large-scale or commercial printing.
  • 3D printing is limited to one object file per person, per week.
  • Students can request a 3D printing appointment via the TechHelp system as described below.
  • Students may request a filament color, but SCS cannot guarantee a color. Because we are not charging for the service, we have to make efficient use of the filament on hand. Objects can be painted after printing. Colors typically stocked include black, white, red, yellow, orange and gray. Eventually, we plan to allow students to supply their own filament, provided it meets SCS quality standards.
  • SCS reserves the right to limit print resolution as necessary to keep print time down to 48 hours or less.

How to request a 3D printing appointment

  1. Create or secure your 3D object file. The object volume cannot exceed 8.46” long by 8.46” wide by 7.87” high (215mm by 215mm by 200mm).
  2. Log into the TechHelp 3D Printing Request Form using your NetID.
  3. Complete all form fields, and let us know if you wish to start the print yourself. With a bit of staff guidance, you can do it all yourself and get the most out of the experience.
  4. Upload your object file(s).
    1. If your file is too large (>2 MB) to upload to TechHelp, save your TechHelp request nevertheless, then try sending the file as an email attachment to .
    2. If your file is too large (>200 MB) to send as an email attachment, log into https://fds.towson.edu and send the file to using the TU File Delivery System.
  5. Click Save in the lower left corner.

Check your email. SCS staff will process your request and contact you within one business day. We’ll also book the printer for you through our Online Resource Booking System (ORBS) and send you the details via email.

Log into ORBS if you haven't already. This will ensure that you appear in the system when we schedule your printing appointment.