TU students can print 3D objects for academic assignments and personal enrichment.
TU students can print 3D objects for academic assignments and personal enrichment.
OTS Student Computing Services (SCS) maintains three Ultimaker 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 or PETG 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.
SCS will continue to support 3D printing for both academic and personal enrichment purposes at no charge. Plus, our experiential workflow guarantees that students gain practical, hands-on knowledge of the process. OTS encourages all students to try this technology and explore its potential to enhance their studies.
Original designs can be created using TinkerCad or other popular 3D design tools (All3DP). For higher-end users, 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).
SCS will not print firearms, parts for firearms, or near-scale models of firearms. If the print is in fulfillment of a class assignment or other academic project, SCS will print with verification from the Dean of your College.
Check your email. SCS staff will process your request and contact you within two business days to schedule a printing appointment. Then, we’ll book the printer for you through our Online Resource Booking System (ORBS) and send you the details via email.
Why not slice it yourself? To convert (or slice) your STL file into G Code so that the printer can build it up layer-by-layer, SCS uses the free Ultimaker Cura slicing application. Students interested in scaling, rotating, configuring, and sicing their own objects can download and install Cura on their own computers.