Our equipment: 

Prusa i3 MK3S+ (“The Original”)

  • Maximum Build Area (HWD): 9.8 x 8.3 x 8.3 inch (25 x 21 x 21 cm)

Prusa Mini

  • Maximum Build Area (HWD): 7 x 7 x 7 inch (18×18×18 cm)

The printers use PLA (polylactic acid) filament.  A variety of colors are available (here).

 

Online Digital Design Files Libraries

  • Prusaprinters.org is a library of high-quality, primarily free, open-source digital models for 3D printing – https://www.prusaprinters.org
  • Thingiverse is a website dedicated to the sharing of primarily free, open-source, user-created digital design files – https://www.thingiverse.com
  • MyMiniFactory is a website dedicated to the sharing of premium printable 3D models in STL format, including the largest collection of 3D scanned statues and artifacts from around the globe – the Scan The World collection — https://www.myminifactory.com/

Most files will be available in the STL (.stl) or OBJ (.obj) format.   The 3D Printers print uses files in the G-code (.gcode) format.  If your design is in either the STL or OBJ format, then you will need to use a “slicing” software to “convert” the files to G-code.

Slicing Software

  • Ultimaker Cura is the world’s most popular 3D printing software. This software is available on the Library Makerspace computers, but you can also download it for personal use –  https://ultimaker.com/software/ultimaker-cura
  • PrusaSlicer is an open-source, feature-rich, frequently updated tool that contains everything you need to export the perfect print files for your Prusa 3D printers – https://www.prusa3d.com/prusaslicer/

Computer Aided Drafting Resources

TinkerCAD is a free online collection of software tools that help people all over the world think, create and make.  It’s an “ideal introduction to Autodesk, the leader in 3D design, engineering and entertainment software.” – Sign up for your free personal account at https://www.tinkercad.com/

There are a wide range of training/tutorial videos available through Tinkercad or by searching YouTube.

Other options include:

To guarantee adequate time to use the 3D printer, we recommend calling the Reference Desk at 860-583-4467 prior to your visit to reserve one of the machines.  You can “drop-in” but we can’t guarantee that the equipment will be available or that staff will be on hand to assist.

Library staff will verify if you have signed the Library Makerspace Liability Waiver.