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3D Printing Services

A 3-D Printing Guide From A.T. Still Memorial Library and ATSU Information Technology Services

How to Request a Model

  1. All 3D printing requests must be sent to our 3D Print Shop Manager, Debra Loguda-Summers, who works in the Kirksville Campus branch of the Library. MODEL REQUESTS ARE FOR YOUR PERSONAL STUDY USE ONLY
    1. Please send requests to dsummers@atsu.edu 
  2. To request a model, please fill out the order form below and send the following information: 
    1. Your contact information
    2. Your School and program affiliation 
    3. If requesting a specific model not listed, please include the link to the STL file and any other information about your desired model -
      • Note: There is only one color available for objects in most cases; however, the plastic can be painted using acrylic model paints.
      • Note: For some projects, we will require an additional step - consultation with Academic Technology. This is often necessary when the model requires significant editing, clean-up, or different material. 
  3. The Library will require an STL or OBJ file to print your 3D object.
    • You may supply this via a USB drive or email. 
    • If you cannot supply an STL or OBJ file, the Library will help you find one if possible. 
  4. The Library will contact you when your model is complete or if there is a problem.
    • Note: Printing a standard model typically requires between one to two weeks if all the necessary files are of good quality; specific cases may take longer depending on the complexity and availability of materials.

Metascan Support

Metascan 3D scanner app for iPhone and iPad only

The Missouri campus library had a designated 3D computer within the Technology Study room, 3D software, Apple Metascan, Next Engine scanner, and OsiriX software for DICOM files. Please contact the 3D print manager for details.

Printed Object Requirements & Limitations

Printing on the Stratasys F170 Printers and MethodX Printers (AZ/CA)

  • Printing is for research or academic purposes only.
  • Requesters must be ATSU students, faculty, or staff.
  • Models must be approved for printing by the 3D print manager. (For example, we will not print full-size skeletons)
  • Models cannot exceed 5x5x5 cubic inches without special permission from the print manager.
  • Single-color printing only.

Printing on the J55 Prime Resin Printer

Please contact the print shop manager directly for these orders: dsummers@atsu.edu or libmo@atsu.edu

  • Only authorized users (faculty or departments) can request multi-color prints. 
  • 3D files must be in a compatible format, OBJ (.obj) or 3MF (.3MF). STL (.stl) format can be used, but the results are not as clean.
  • The file(s) should be pre-checked for errors.
  • The 3D files should already contain color choices and resin types. Blender or GrabCAD Pro software is free to download.
  • The library does not design files. If you need a file intended for printing design, please get in touch with a company that will do that for you. Below are a few:
  • Print fees:
    • Costs are calculated based on the amount of resin used per print.
    • Costs may include a base fee for machine use and possible surcharges for special resins or high-resolution prints. Additional charges for post-processing services like cleaning, curing, or sanding may apply.
    • The library will provide a cost estimation before printing. Departments or faculty are responsible for all costs before printing.

STEP ONE : Find/Create STL or OBJ file

The 3D Printers require a CAD-based STL (STereoLithography) or OBJ file for printing. STL files can be created using a 3D scanner or downloaded from other sources.

  • Users must bring a suitable STL or OBJ file to the Library for use with the printer.
    • See the page to the left for assistance finding an open-source STL file suitable for printing. 
  • Convert files: https://imagetostl.com/convert/file/blend/to/stl
STL & CAD file visualization comparison image from Wikipedia

STEP TWO : The Printers

MakerBot Method X Printer (Arizona and California Campuses)

The Method X uses ABS-R material for printing. Prints may be limited in size due to the build plate. 

J55 Prime 3D Printer Resin Printer (Faculty/Department Prints ONLY)

Model files used: OBJ (.obj) or 3MF (.3mf)

Multi-color, multi-material resin printer 

J55 Prime Printer Brochure and Model Materials Listing

 

 

STEP THREE : The Washers

3D printed models must be cleaned of support materials that still adhere to their surfaces after printing is complete. The Library uses specific washers to clean models when possible. For models built using the Affinia H+1, cleaning must be done by hand.

Library 3D Specialists

Deb Loguda-Summers profile 

Debra Loguda-Summers

3D Print Service Manager

EDU Stratasys Additive Manufacturing Certified, Level I

PolyJet Advanced Operations Training

 

 

Arizona 3D

 

Leslie Golamb

Library Liaison 

3D Printing for Arizona Campus

 

California 3D

 

Dot Winslow

Library Assistant

3D Printing for California Campus