Makerspace 3D Printing Process

Step 1:

Design your 3D model using the CAD software of your choice. Next, export the model as an .STL or another file type that the slicer can open.

Step 2:

Slice your file using the Prusa Slicer. Make sure to follow the steps here to set it up for the makerspace.

Step 3:

Submit your print through 3DPrinterOS, and start your print at the Kiosk in the Makerspace. Steps explained below.

Before Printing You Should...

Check your design to ensure your print doesn't have any errors.

This includes being mindful of design choices such as overhangs and bridges which can affect whether a print is successful or not. The printer may still be able to print your design but you might still need to enable supports.

Check that the printer you will be using has the correct filament.

The Makerspace does not change the filament that is loaded onto a printer so the responsibility is on you to make sure you are using a printer that has the material you need already loaded on.

Check the basic slicer print settings and for errors when slicing.

Layer Height: How detailed or fast do you want your print to be?
Filament: Is the correct filament specified in the slicer for the material you're printing with?
Supports: Does your design need supports? If so, make sure it's checked off.
Infill Density: Are you looking for the print to have strength or just sit on a shelf? Set your infill accordingly.
Brim: Have this checked off if your print is tall or in cases where there's not much surface area in contact with the print bed.

Forget how to do all this?

3DPrinterOS

3DPrinterOS is the platform used to manage and run 3D prints from start to finish. It lets you upload models, adjust basic print settings, and send jobs directly to available printers. It helps streamlines the printing process so you can go from a finished design to a queued print quickly and efficiently.

Step 1

Go to 3DPrinterOS, and go to the SSO tab and find New Jersey Insititute of Technology.

Step 2

Proceed to log in through NJIT’s Single Sign-On. You will then be greeted with a page that should look like this:

You can see a list of files that you’ve uploaded and your current balance in the top right

Step 3

Click on “Add files.” Select a sliced file that you generated with the Prusa Slicer using the Makerspace config bundle (*.bgcode or *.gcode). Once the file has loaded, click “Print.”

If you have insufficient balance to print the object, you will see a message like this:

Click on “Add Funds,” set an amount, and it will take you to a Clover popup for payment.

Step 4

With sufficient funds, you will see a list of all printers, like this:

You will only be able to print to a printer that is both open and has the same material as your model.

Click on the printer you wish to run your job on.

Step 5

Click the green "Queue" button at the bottom of the window.

📝You are only able to send one job to the queue at a time. This means you can only have one print running at a time.📝

Step 6

You must be physically present to start your print. Find the 3D Print Release kiosk on the Mezzanine near the elevators and scan your ID card.

Step 7

Once you have logged in, find your job on the screen. Touch the job to begin the print release process.

If you do not see your job, touch "Start Over". Make sure your job was sent to the Queue.

Step 8

Your job name and information is shown on the screen. If everything looks correct, touch "Continue".

Step 9

Carefully read the Helpful Reminders. Ensure the print bed is clear and clean, and stay for the first layer.

When you're ready to print, touch "Start Print". Your router card will be printed and the job will start on the machine.

IMPORTANT : Inspect the Build Plate To ensure It's Clean and Free of Grease

Before hitting start print, check the build plate of the printer you selected. If you see grease or material stuck to the build plate, wash it with a small drop of soap and water. Dry the build plate before replacing it and starting your print. ⛔Prints will fail if the build plate is dirty⛔

Step 10

You print is paused until you hit continue. This is so that you can inspect the build plate and make sure the the printer is clear to print. Place your router card in the cardholder on the machine.

You must wait until the first layer is complete before leaving. The print will automatically pause after the first layer for you to inspect and confirm proper bed adhesion. If the first layer is good you can hit the resume button on the printer's interface.

🚨If you are not around to confirm this step, the print will be cancelled and you will not get a refund.🚨

Bad First Layer

(Clean plate and retry)

Good first layer

(Continue print)

Step 11

If you are around when your print finishes, you will find that the LED indicator is purple. Purple indicates a print finished but has not been removed yet.

You should remove it, as well as any additional filament on the bed. Once the bed is cleared, press the “Mark Bed Clear” button. This will turn the LED indicator green (may take a few seconds) to confirm the printer is ready for a new job.

Step 12

When you come to pick up a print after it has finished, it will be stored in the lockers by the printers on the mezzanine. An email will be sent to you with an access code and a QR code. Either enter the code or scan the QR at the lockers and your locker will open with your print.

Your prints will be held in the lockers for 48 hours. After that time your prints will be removed and they will be stored for a week at the Makerspace front desk. Once that time has elapsed your prints will be disposed of and no refund will be awarded.

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