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CLAS - 3D Model Submission Procedure

 

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3D Printing Services

While physical access to the 3D printers is limited to a few trained individuals, anyone at the University of Iowa may have a file printed.

Type of 3D files:

Although we prefer .stl files, color files need to be submitted via VRML(.wrl) or 3DS (.3ds) format. The Dimension Printer uses only .stl files, but the color printer can print all 3 formats.

For color, the files must be colored within the 3D Program you are using. Importing pictures and/or textures and applying them to your models will not transfer to the 3D Printing computer. Pictures and textures can be applied within the 3D Printing computer itself. If you wish to apply a specific picture or texture, please speak with us about receiving assistance.

Not sure if your colors will transfer? Here is a quick test you can perform to find out:

  1. Save your model under your 3D program's base format
  2. Export your model to .3ds or .wrl format
  3. Start a new session with your 3D program or shut it down and start it up again.
  4. File -> Import -> Import the .3ds or .wrl format model you exported.
  5. Render your scene. This is exactly how your model will appear to us when we open it in our computer.


Size Limits:

Dimension SST 1200es: The part(s) can be no bigger than 10 x 10 x 12 inches and no thinner than .013 inches. Anything thinner is prone to warping and breakage.

Zcorp 650 Color Printer: The part(s) can be no bigger than 10 x 15 x 8 inches and no thinner than .004 inches. Anything thinner is prone to breakage.

Data size: We are still testing the file size limits. We can definitely accept anything below 100MB, but are uncertain how much bigger we can get from there. Please contact us if you have a large file you'd like to try.


Cost:

Dimension SST 1200es: Cost for anyone associated with the University of Iowa is $5.00 per square in. of model and support material used.

Zcorp 650 Color Printer: Cost for anyone associated with the University of Iowa is $4.00 per cu/in without post-processing binder, or $7.00 per cu.in if you want post processing binder. Post processing binder provides stronger, more durable models and really helps bring out the color in your models.

Note on both printers:

  • We can tell you the price and approximate print time of your model BEFORE we make the print, so don't be shy to ask us for an estimate.
  • We will make prints for those outside the UI but we will need to charge a higher price as the systems are primarily meant for student use.

Example cost :

The Statue of liberty located on the previous page costs about $50 in the color printer, and also $50 if printed hollow in the Dimension printer. Cost would be around $100 to $120 if printed solid

 

To minimize costs:

  1. Send smaller models.
  2. Hollow out solids (you are charged based on the total volume of your 3d model.)
  3. Send only what you can't build by hand.


For more information, or to place an order, contact:

L. Daniel Langstraat III
3D Printing Manager
daniel-langstraat@uiowa.edu (preferred)
or call 319-335-6141

or

Johnny Chan
3D Printing Assistant
shuwun-chan@uiowa.edu

 

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