3D Printing
Bring Your Creations to the Real World!
Today’s 3D technology offers countless opportunities in the realms of business development and creative expression. You can explore the possibilities with the help of the Delray Beach Public Library and its 3D printers.
Step 1: Design
What do you want to print? You’ll need more than an idea; you’ll need a design in the form of a digital file. Creating a design requires the use of 3D modeling software. If you are new to 3D printing, free software for beginners, including Tinkercad and Sculptris, is available. You can also find a range of designs online from file-sharing sites like thingiverse.com.
Please keep in mind that your design must be able to fit on our 3D printer’s platform, which can accommodate a maximum size of 11” x 7” x 6” (279 x 178 x 152 mm). At this time, you are also limited to using a single color of PLA filament in your design. Printing time can’t exceed eight hours; that means no multi-step prints. You may request one 3D printing project per week.
• Hot Tip: Be sure to save a copy of your completed design. The file you submit to the library will be deleted once it has been printed.
Step 2: Submitting Your Design
To submit your completed 3D design for printing, you’ll need to complete a submission form as well as a design using a .stl (preferred) or .obj file type. Requests for 3D printing are processed on a first come, first served basis.
When we receive your request, we will prepare the model for printing. A copy of the print preview, including the cost estimate, will be sent to your email. Once you have confirmed that you would like to proceed, we’ll schedule your project and printing will begin.
If, for some reason, we can’t fulfill the print job you requested, we’ll send you an email with a brief explanation.
Please note the 3D Printing Terms of Services.
Step 3: Picking Up Your Project
You’ll receive an email notifying you when your project has been printed and is ready for pickup. Completed projects will be held at the Circulation Desk on the library’s main floor. All costs are due at the time of pickup.
You’ll have 14 days after the completion email is sent to pick up your project. Printed items not picked up within 14 days become the property of the library.
Printing Costs
The cost of 3D printing is based on the weight of the filament used to produce the object.
- The cost for 3D print jobs weighing 20 grams or less is $2.
- The cost for print jobs weighing more than 20 grams is $2 + $0.10 for each additional gram above 20 grams.
If your project fails to fully print, you will still be liable for payment, unless the problem was a result of mechanical failure or errors in the printing process on our end. If you aren’t satisfied with the color, scale, quality, design or any other pre-selected option under your control, you can revise your design and submit a new print request, but you will be required to pay for both print runs.
Many 3D models require the addition of support material to counteract the effect of gravity while the design is printing. This may add slightly to the weight of the project, affecting the final cost. In general, library staff will attempt to remove the support material before the project is picked up. However, in cases of complex models requiring excess support, patrons may be asked to remove it themselves.
Print Submission Form
Please note: All 3D projects will be printed using a standard 10% infill unless otherwise requested. Models with greater infill density require more filament and will increase the cost of the print.
The Fine Print
- Users of this service must agree to the library’s 3D Printing Terms of Service.
- The procedures governing the use of the library’s 3D printers are subject to change.
- 3D printing projects are not eligible for refunds.
- Direct access to 3D printers is limited to library staff and trained volunteers.
- The library retains the right to refuse any print request for any reason.
Additional Services
Black & White – $0.15 per page | Color – $0.50 per page
USB drive, Email, Google Drive, or OneDrive – $0.05 per page
Domestic – $0.50 per page | International – $2 per page
$25 per exam. Must pre-register with reference department.
Contact alyson.walzer@delraylibrary.org.