3D Printing Service

3D Printing Service

The library provides a 3D printing service to staff and students. The service is performed by library staff who process 3D print files submitted by users.

Who can use this service?

The service is available to registered students and staff of NUI Galway

How do I use this service?

The 3D printers we use can fabricate 3D models from any 3D design software that is capable of exporting the file as a .stl. The model will be printed in PLA (polyactic acid or polyactide) which is a biodegradable thermoplastic derived from renewable resources such as sugarcane.

To use the service you need to create a request in the service desk request system available on the link below. The first step is for you to save your drawing file in .stl format to your OneDrive and copy a link to the file which you will submit with your request.

Please note the following:

• Only files in .stl format can be printed so you must Save As or Export in STL format. If given the option of binary or ascii – choose binary.

• The file will be printed “As Is” without modification except where supports are needed during the printing process. If supports are needed during printing then they will still be in place when you collect your printed model.

• The maximum volume for the object is 200mm x 200mm x 200mm.

• The item will be printed in PLA material.

• The colour of the item will be whatever coloured filament is in the printer at the time.

• In order to maximise usage of the printer, multiple items from different users may be printed at the same time. This may result in items may not being printed in the order in which they were received.

• If a printed item is not collected within 7 days it becomes the property of the Library.

   

• As this is currently a free service the library reserves the right to deny a print request if it would result in a disproportionately high use of the limited materials available. If your request is too big we may not be able to process it for free.

The service cannot be used to print items that fall into any of these categories:

1. Prohibited by law including but not limited to weapons and models of weapons.

2. Unsafe, harmful, dangerous or poses an immediate threat to the well-being of others

3. Obscene or otherwise inappropriate items.

4. In violation of another's intellectual property rights. E.g copyright, patent or trademark protection.

To submit your 3D print job follow these steps –

1. Save you file to your OneDrive as an stl file in binary.

2. Copy the link to your file.

3. Logon to https://servicedesk.nuigalway.ie with your campus account

4. Choose Request Type: 08. Printing and then 3D Print Request

5. Paste the link to your .stl file into the Request Detail file. Notes can also be added to that field but remember we won’t make any changes to your item prior to printing other than to add supports if necessary.

How do I get help?

If you have any questions regarding this service please send an email to libmakerspace@nuigalway.ie 

When can I use the service

• Print requests can be submitted at any time via the service desk request system https://servicedesk.nuigalway.ie

What does the service cost?

• The service is currently free to students and staff of the university.

Related information

• None

 Service Owner

• Connell Cunningham

• Service initiated 22/09/15