3D Printing
3D printers can create three-dimensional models with CAD software support. Material, generally filament, is joined, deposited or solidified in order to create the model layer by layer under computer control. The Ultimaker S series of printers are versatile and the possibilities are endless. Both allow you to bring your big and small ideas to life. Visit the Ultimaker S Series webinars to learn and be inspired.
Review the full safety manual for the Ultimaker S series printers click here.
- The printers can generate high temperatures and have moving parts - do not reach inside the printer while it's in operation.
- Do not lean over the printer during operation due to risk of entanglement of hair, jewelry, and/or scarfs.
- Fan must remain on when printers are operating.
- Allow the printers to cool down for 5 minutes; the display will indicate when the build plate has cooled down to a safe temperature.
- Nozzles on filament printers can heat to 250° C and can burn
- Print beds are heated to between 60-80° C
- Stay out of reach of the build plate during operation.
- This product is not intended for use by children. When using the product, children should be under constant supervision by an adult responsible for their safety.
General Safety Reminders
- Identify where the first aid kit and fire extinguishers are located.
- Do not make any abrupt movements; be cautious of your surroundings.
- Inform a staff member if something doesn't work. If you know how to fix the problem, fix it with the staff member, but you should not attempt to repair the equipment.
- Be respectful of the space, equipment, materials, other users, and facilitators/staff who may be assisting.
- Ask questions and view the information within this guide if you are unsure about any equipment in the space.
Click here to review Ultimaker S3 and S5 user manual (English). If you require a different language click here.
To get started with your first print you will need to start and connect to the Ultimaker CURA software (already downloaded on the Makerspace computers).
The S series 3D printers are compatible with a wide range of materials. Each material requires different settings for best results. To view and determine the best material for your project click here.
| UltiMaker S3 | UltiMaker S5 | |
| Build volume |
230x190x200 mm |
330x240x300 mm |
| Nozzle heat-up time | <2 minutes | <2 minutes |
| Build plate heat-up time | <4 mins (from 20 to 60 degrees C) | <5 minutes (from 20-60 C) |
| Software | UltiMaker Cura | Ultimaker Cura |
| Supported file types | STL, OBJ, X3D, 3MF, BMP, GIF, JPG, PNG Printable formats: G, GCODE, GCODE.gz, UFP |
STL, OBJ, X3D, 3MF, BMP, GIF, JPG, PNG Printable formats: G, GCODE, GCODE.gz, UFP |
Image credit: https://um-support-files.ultimaker.com
Ultimaker CURA is a user-friendly, powerful, open-source 3D printing slicing software designed to prepare 3D models for printing. Its primary purpose is to convert digital 3D models into instructions that 3D printers can understand and execute layer by layer. Users can import their 3D models into CURA, adjust settings as needed, and then generate a sliced model file ready for printing. CURA is downloaded and ready to use on our computers. Or download the software at home, set up an account, and design and upload a project. When you're ready, come in to print the final product.
3D printed files can be found at the popular Ultimaker Thingiverse. Here you can discover what other users are uploading, sharing and printing.
LinkedIn Learning is an educational site with video courses to help you develop your business, creative, and technology skills. Each course is taught by an industry professional who is excited to share their knowledge with you. This resource is free and accessible with your NLPL card. Current offerings on 3D-related learning courses include a selection of over 20 courses.
To access this resource visit NLPL's Digital Library and log into LinkedIn Learning using your library card. Once you are logged in, search for "3D printing" to a see a list of courses.