3D Printing

What is 3D printing?

3D printing is a general term used to describe the creation of physical objects from digital designs. There are many kinds of 3D printers. Some build with layers of molten plastic; others may build with lights and layers of UV-reactive resin. The end result is the same: A 3D model from a computer has been brought into the real world.

3D Printing at the Library

When you 3D print at the Henry County Public Library, you'll likely be using our filament printers. A filament printer feeds spools of plastic wire (called filament) into a super-hot crucible, commonly called the hot end. The hot end melts the filament before dispensing it onto the build plate in layers. This process is called extrusion.

The library currently has two Anycubic Kobra 2 Pro filament printers available for public use.

How do I submit a file?

The library is able to process .3MF, .OBJ, and .STL file types. These files may be emailed or dropped off to the library on a USB drive. You can also submit a file to us here. When you give us a file, we will attempt to run it through our slicing software (this program converts your file into instructions for the printer. You will be notified if your file is unable to be printed as-is).

Some users may wish to implement advanced print settings into their files. Those wishing to do so may slice their own files at home or on a library computer and send us the resulting .gcode file. 

Please note: If you would prefer to send us your own .gcode files, please ensure that they are sliced using the configuration profile for the Anycubic Kobra 2.

When can I expect my print to be finished?

The time it takes for a print to finish will vary depending on its size and complexity. Larger prints will, naturally, take longer. Wait times also vary based on printer availability and queue length.

How are library prints queued?

Prints are queued on a first-come first-served basis. Patrons are currently limited to three files in the queue at a time. You may submit another file when you come to the library to pick up your print.

How much does it cost to use the 3D Printer?

3D prints are priced at $0.05 per gram of filament used. This is a flat cost intended to cover the cost of filament, electricity, maintenance, and labor to run the printers.

Prints are weighed upon completion with supports and brims included.

How can I pick up my prints?

When you have a 3D print available for pickup, it will be added to your library card account as a hold. You will be notified via the phone number attached to your library card.

Users are expected to pay for their prints at pickup. Prints that are not picked up within 3 weeks of completion will be billed to the user's library card account.

Resource Links

Ultimaker Cura - A free, open-source slicing software that is able to run on most computers. This software is pre-installed on all Henry County Public Library laptops.

Tinkercad - A 3D modeling web app and learning resource for people of all ages. Free to use, but requires an account.

Printables.com - An online repository of files for 3D printing. Many files are free to download and use.