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Uncc 3d printing


3D Printing | J. Murrey Atkins Library

3D printers use digital models to create three-dimensional objects by depositing plastic filament (PLA) one layer at a time in a process called fused deposition modeling.

Atkins Library's 3D printers are currently managed by the Technology Support Desk located on the second floor. Please review the 3D Printing Policy before submitting a request for 3D prints. All requests should be submitted through the form below. 

The last day for 3D print requests in 2019 is Sunday, December 15th.

We will resume taking requests in early January 2020.

3D Print Request Form

Visit the 3D Printing page of our Area 49 LibGuide for more information on using the machines.

 

Design 3D objects for classes, experiment with personal projects, or enhance classroom delivery through this innovative printing service! 

Lulzbot Taz 6

Build Volume: 11 in x 11 in x 9. 8 in

JellyBox

Build Volume: 6.7 in x 6.3 in x 5.7 in

The cost for 3D printing is based on the cost of filament, time, labor, utilities and maintenance. The cost per object is $0.25 per gram, with a minimum cost of $1.00 for each 3D print. All print requests will receive a cost estimate prior to printing. We will wait for your response to the estimate before beginning printing.

We are not accepting filament provided by patrons at this time, but we do have a variety of colors to choose from. The following filament colors are available.

Purple
White
Yellow
Red
 
Black
Blue
Silver
Orange
 
Green
Warm Gray
Clear
Brown

 

The 3D printing request service is available to UNC Charlotte students, faculty, and staff for academic use only. The use of our services for commercial purposes is prohibited. Those who request this service must do so in compliance with all of the laws, regulations, and policies set forth by UNC Charlotte and J. Murrey Atkins Library. 


Consultation
For questions about the 3D printing policy and procedures or to schedule a consultation, contact Technology Support Services. Consultations are recommended for faculty who are interested in implementing 3D prints in their curriculum. Please email Technology Support Services.
 

Print Requests
All print requests need to be made through the 3D Print Request Form. Requests are processed in the order received.

Once your digital print file is received, library staff will determine which printer is best suited for your project.

You may choose up to five copies of the same file per request form. Copies will be identical in size, color, scale, and any other design specification defined by your digital model.  If you choose to have multiple copies made, you must allow additional time for each copy. For more than five copies of the same file, fill out an additional request form.

Library staff reserves the right to decline a print request for reasons that include, but not limited to, incompatible file format, corrupt file, or oversized file or print.
 

Acceptable Formats
All print requests must include a digital model file. The following are the only acceptable formats for print requests:

  • .STL
  • .OBJ

If you are unsure about the format of your digital file or its compatibility with our 3D printers, consult with the Technology Support Desk before submitting a request. If your file is corrupt, too large, or otherwise unprintable, library staff will not be able to complete the print request.
 

User Rights and Limitations
J. Murrey Atkins Library stands behind and supports intellectual freedom and creative expression. However, the use and/or request of the 3D printer must be for lawful purposes only. The Library’s user behavior and acceptable use policies apply to all uses of the 3D printer and 3D prints. The Library prohibits any use of the 3D printer for illegal purposes, including the creation of items that are prohibited by local, state, or federal law, or by any UNC Charlotte policy. In particular, the Library prohibits use of the 3D printers to create weapons, facsimiles or replicas of weapons, parts of weapons, ammunition, or any other objects that could endanger, intimidate, or cause injury to another person. The Library reserves the right to decline any print request for any reason.
 

Copyright
Print requests must comply with the Copyright Policy maintained by the J. Murrey Atkins Library and UNC Charlotte. This policy outlines the unlawful, restricted, and unfair use of copyrighted materials and any use that violates intellectual property rights. 
 

Materials
Our 3D printers use PLA (polylactic acid) filament to create 3D models. You may choose from the Library’s supply of filament; we are unable to accept filament provided by patrons at this time.

We currently offer 11 different filament color options. We will attempt to maintain a consistent variety of colors available for prints; however, color options cannot be guaranteed.  


Cost
The cost of 3D printing is based on the size and amount of filament needed to print an object. Charges also factor in cost of supplies, time, labor, and maintenance. The cost for a 3D print is $0.25 per gram.* There is a minimum cost of $1.00. Rates may change without notice.

A free cost estimate is provided upon receipt of your request. You are responsible for full payment of your object. Payment is due at the time of pickup. Acceptable forms of payment include:

  • Cash
  • Credit

*Rates are subject to change without notice.
 

Print Quality and Reprints
Library staff will take measures to ensure that the 3D printer performs to the specifications of the file submitted. The quality of a printed object may depend on the type of digital model and/or file you choose. When using community-shared repositories, like Thingiverse, quality of digital model/file cannot be guaranteed.

In instances where the 3D print fails as a result of printer failure, library staff will reprint the object at no extra cost. However, dissatisfaction with design, size, color, quality, and/or other factors beyond the control of library staff will not qualify for a cost-free reprint.

Please be aware of the capabilities of our 3D printers to ensure the success of your project.
 

Print Pickup
You will receive an email once your 3D print is ready for pickup. 3D prints must be paid for and picked up at the Circulation Desk within 7 days of notification, after which the Library no longer assumes responsibility for your print. Failure to pick up your print within 7 days will result in the cost being charged to your account as a library fine.

You must present your ID in order to pick up your 3D print. Only the person that initiated the print request (via print request form) may pay for and pick up a 3D print.

3D Printing - Area 49

3D Printer Info

LulzBot Taz Workhorse

Print Bed Volume:​

  • X axis: 11.02 inches
  • Y axis: 11.02 inches
  • Z axis: 11.22 inches

Filament size: 2.85 mm

Lanyard Color: green

LulzBot Taz Pro Dual Extruder

Print Bed Volume:​

  • X axis: 11.02 inches
  • Y axis: 11.02 inches
  • Z axis: 11.22 inches

Filament size: 2.85 mm

Lanyard Color: green

LulzBot Taz Pro S

Print Bed Volume:​

  • X axis: 11.02 inches
  • Y axis: 11.02 inches
  • Z axis: 11.22 inches

Filament size: 1.75 mm

Lanyard Color: green

Location: Makerspace

Use options: Training or Request a print!

Cost: $0.25/gram, $1 minimum

Safety Data Sheets for filament

General

3D printers use digital models to create three-dimensional objects by depositing plastic filament (PLA) one layer at a time in a process called fused deposition modeling. This page shows how to 3D print the file, from start to finish and also notes some pointers for quality prints. Check out our Technology Instruction page for dates and times for trainings and to register for them. 

Users may set their own prints on the 3D printers after completing a training and signing the 3D Printers Safety Agreement, but must schedule them ahead of time at groupstudy.uncc.edu. Any unscheduled prints may be stopped and removed from the printer if someone else has scheduled that time. Users are asked to limit the scheduling of prints to one print per week, with the exception of single prints that will run for a longer period. If the user does not check in within 15 minutes of the scheduled start time, the scheduled job will be automatically removed from the calendar. Check our 3D Printing Policy for more information.

Safety

  • The 3D printer extrusion heads are heated to at least 210°C (410°F), even during standby mode, and that touching the print head can result in serious burns.
  • Users are allowed to insert and remove filament from the print head and any tangled or clumped filament from the build plate, but should seek the assistance of Makerspace staff for more complex troubleshooting issues. 
  • 3D printers contain multiple moving parts. Interfering with normal operation may damage the printer. In an emergency, turn off the printer using the printer’s main power switch.
  • -Fill out and post the Job Status Form on the 3D printer while using it and remove my print in a timely manner once printing is complete.
  • Makerspace staff will pause the print when the Makerspace closes for the night and will restart it upon reopening.
  • Limit 3D prints to those that are for non-commercial purposes only.
  • Comply with all tutorial and operations instructions given by Makerspace staff.

3D Printing Your File

Slicing your print (preparing the file)
  1. Open your . stl or .obj file in Cura. The Lulzbot edition can be used to slice prints for all the LulzBot printers.
  2. Check the weight and runtime in the bottom right corner. Multiply the weight in grams by $0.25 to get your printing cost, though it may vary slightly.
  3. Choose the settings.
  • Printer (select or install the printer you wish to use)
    • LulzBot Taz Workhorse: TAZ Workhorse | HE | 0.50mm
    • LulzBot TAZ Pro S: TAZ Pro SE | 0.50mm | Nickel Plated Copper 
    • LulzBot TAZ Pro Dual Extruder: TAZ Pro Pro Dual | 0.50mm| Hardest SST
  • Material Type
    • Lulzbot: PLA Verbatim
  • Infill percentage and type
    • 20% infill for most prints, but judge it based on how sturdy the print needs to be.
  • Speed/Quality
    • High detail setting: for curves or details
    • Standard or high-speed setting: level or smooth prints
  • Supports: If the print has a 45º overhang, use supports. ​
Detail Level & Supports
 

High Detail

 Standard Detail
Needs Supports No supports

 

    • Build Plate Adhesion:
      • Raft: A thick layer that stops warping (will prolong print time)
      • Skirt: A thin line around the print area that extrudes any old color and ensures a smooth filament flow
      • Brim: A thin layer that prevents warping by holding the bottom edges to the build plate.

    Source: 762fd12ae2f1e6ec723ef22d69985f099144b206_1_690x115.jpg

    1. Save your print with your NinerNet Username to find it easier. When you get to the Makerspace, save this file to the SD card for that printer. An SD card adapter is available.

    On the 3D Printer
    Loading/Unloading Filament
    Filament sizes:
    • LulzBot TAZ Workhorse: 2. 85mm
    • LulzBot TAZ Pro Dual Extruder: 2.85mm
    • LulzBot TAZ Pro S: 1.75mm
    LulzBot TAZ Pro Dual Extruder & LulzBot TAZ Pro S
    1. On touchscreen select Menu> Move Axis > All (to the right of X,Y,Z). This will automatically shift to the home position. 
    2. Select Menu > Change Filament > 220° C High 
      1. For Dual Extruder select Extruder 1 or 2 before selecting temperature.
    3. Loosen thumb screw on front of extruder
    4. On touchscreen select Continuous and unload filament. Hit Continuous again to stop.
    5. Load the new filament spool on holder and find the end. Cut the end at a 45º angle for loading ease and so the extruder won't jam. Ensure that the filament roll has no tangles or overlaps.
      1. For TAZ Pro Dual Extruder use 2.85mm filament
      2. For LulzBot TAZ Pro S use 1.75mm filament
    6. On touchscreen, select Continuous and feed new filament into extruder. Hit Continuous again to stop the feed.
    LulzBot TAZ Workhorse
    1. Loosen the thumb screw on the tool head by turning it to the left
    2. Using front knob, go to Change Filament > Change Filament > Preheat PLA to unload filament and reload new filament (if only loading filament is needed, select Load Filament)
    3. Wait for filament to unload and pull out old filament.
    4. Load the new filament spool on holder and find the end. Cut the end at a 45º angle for loading ease and so the extruder won't jam. Ensure that the filament roll has no tangles or overlaps.
    5. Using front knob, select Continue and load filament with but point toward the back of the extruder. 
    6. Pinch the idler latch forward while filament loads to help it feed into the extruder. .
    7. Once filament is loaded, tighten thumb screw.
    Setting the print
    1. Insert the SD card or USB drive
    2. Select "Print using SD" or "USB" and select your file.
    3. Watch until the first layer is complete to ensure there are no defects. If you observe defects, stop the print and adjust your print settings.
    4. Stay with the print for the first half hour, which is usually when things go wrong. Check the print every hour after that.
    5. Once the print is finished, bring the build plate to a temperature of 40º C to remove the print.
    6. Bring the print to the Makerspace Monitor, who will weigh it in grams and enter cost information into our library system. Pay for your print at the Circulation Desk on the first floor.
    Pausing the print

    Your print will be paused by the Makerspace Monitor overnight. Currently, the extruder will lift automatically, but if it does not, keep these things in mind:

    • When pausing a print:
      •  Lift the extruder away from the print immediately. The longer it is near the print, the more it will melt the surface. To pause, push the button on the printer and navigate to "pause. "
      • Make a note on the 3D printing poster of how much you lifted the extruder, so it can be resumed at the correct point.
    • When resuming a print:
      • Make sure it aligns properly
      • Wipe the nozzle of burnt filament, whether you see any or not. Place a sheet of paper or cloth over the print directly under the extruder. Grab the cold filament from above the extruder and gently push it down into the extruder. Wipe off the extruder nozzle with a cloth to remove any remnants.

    Tips & Tricks

    Supports

    Are Supports needed?

    Lay the model on the flattest side to reduce the support filament used and the print time. Overhangs over 45 degrees will require supports. Check the slicer program, also. Areas beneath the overhang will be red if supports are needed.

    Supports Type

    Fig. 1. Lattice Support Patterns. Retrieved from Ultimaker

    • Concentric: Good for models shaped as a sphere, tube, pipe and hollow prints.
    • Lines: Easily removable for tricky holes or flat surfaces. Use for T and H-shaped overhangs.
    • Zig Zag: Similar to lines but are easier to remove because lines are connected. Use for T and H-shaped overhangs. 
    Tree Supports

    Fig. 2. Tree Supports. Retrieved from Flashforge.com

    Use tree supports for dynamic shapes. They are much easier to remove from smaller areas without breaking the print. (All3DP.com)

    Setting Tree Supports in Cura
    • To add to your settings: Settings >configure setting visibility > experimental > check all boxes about tree supports > Close.
    • To enable tree supports: Position the model then enable tree supports. Custom > check to show Experimental > Tree Support settings.  Uncheck the supports box on the main settings interface. Leaving it checked, it will generate both regular supports and tree supports.
    Support Density

    Distance between support structure lines

    • Higher values generate more support, take longer to print, and are harder to remove. 
    • Lower values generate less support, take less time to print, and are easier to remove.
    • The larger and heavier the overhang, the more support density needed. 8%-15% support density is recommended.

    Advanced Support Settings

    Support Placement

    You can pick where Cura will generate supports:

    • Everywhere (including on the model)
    • Build plate only (only touching the bed). Build plate only is recommended for hollow, pipe-shaped models.

    Z Distance

    The gap between the top and bottom of the supports and the model.

    • . 2mm - .5mm support Z distance is recommended.
    • This gap prevents supports from melting to the model and makes it easier to remove supports. Large gaps will not give filament a supported base, and will cause the print to fail.

    Support Interface

    Creates a layer between the support and the model. This leaves a smooth looking finish on the model. Always reduce it to at least  .75mm and increase the Z distance in order to remove it easily.

    Additional Tips

    • Use glue, not rafts, if you notice the brim and model are rising to decrease the amount of filament wasted. When using glue, always clean the bed when you are finished.

    • Don't reprint a failed print using the same settings as before.

    • Always use a brim for small models or when you notice the bottom rising. Without a brim, prints can easily move out of place especially they are tall. If the bottom rises, stop it immediately and add a brim or raft. The print has already failed.

    • Before saving your print to a flash drive always see it in Layer View to see exactly how the build plate adhesion and support will look. View drop-down menu > choose Layer View > wait for it to render.

    Additional Options

    Create a profile in Cura

    Create a profile to save your frequently-used settings.

    1. Make your desired changes in Custom Settings.
    2. Click "Profile" drop-down menu.
    3. Click "Create Profile from Current Settings."
    4. Name the profile.

    You can now select the profile at any time.

    To skip the auto-leveling step:

    In "Machine Settings," move to the Start GCode box. Delete all content from the box and replace it with the following content. Copy the following into the Start GCode box:

    ;This G-Code has been generated specifically for the LulzBot TAZ 6 with standard extruder

    M75 ; start GLCD timer

    G26 ; clear potential 'probe fail' condition

    G21 ; set units to Millimetres

    M107 ; disable fans

    M420 S0 ; disable previous leveling matrix

    G90 ; absolute positioning

    M82 ; set extruder to absolute mode

    G92 E0 ; set extruder position to 0

    M140 S{material_bed_temperature} ; start bed heating up

    G28 ; Home all axis

    M425 Z ; use measured Z backlash for compensation

    M425 Z F0 ; turn off measured Z backlash compensation. (if activated in the quality settings, this command will automatically be ignored)

    M204 S500 ; restore standard acceleration

    M117 Heating... ; progress indicator message on LCD

    M109 R{material_print_temperature_layer_0} ; wait for extruder to reach printing temp

    M190 S{material_bed_temperature_layer_0} ; wait for bed to reach printing temp

    G90 ; use absolute positioning for the XYZ axes

    G1 E0 F100 ; prime nozzle from previous print

    M117 TAZ 6 Printing... ; progress indicator message on LCD

    Dual Extruder

    The Dual Extruder allows for printing a single item in two different colors. Check out the Dual Extruder page for instructions on creating, slicing, and printing the file.

    Troubleshooting

    (There is a solution) Will 3D printing multiple copies at the same time save time?

    diy-3d-printer

    I'm wondering - of course, if the 3D printer's table is big enough - printing multiple copies of the same print can save me a significant amount of time in a small production line, eliminating minor losses such as setup time , post-processing time, etc.

    for example, if my print takes 10 hours, will it take 2x longer to print 2x copies at a time, increasing linearly, or will it be much less?

    @Mehrad, 👍14