3D Printing at Kingsport Library
3D printing is the process of making a physical object from a three-dimensional digital model, meaning you can turn any object design into an actual object.
Have you heard of 3D printers but don’t know what they are or how they work? Now you have an opportunity to see one in action at the Kingsport Public Library (KPL), which has recently joined the ranks of over 250 public libraries in the U.S. who offer access to 3D printing. Library 3D printing yields many benefits: provides opportunities for children to experiment with new technologies, encourages new technology-based innovation in small business, and helps people of all ages build cutting-edge skills for the innovation economy.
Children (and adults!) are able to learn about the 3D printing using a program called Doddle3D. Doodle allows the user to create drawings that can be created into 3D objects!
Patrons who have a KPL card and are in good standing can bring print files to the library in .stl format, or use the scanner or Doodle3D box. Library staff or trained volunteers will actually print the object. A minimal fee of $1.00 per print job and $.15 per gram of filament used will be charged.
KPL’s 3D printer station includes an Ultimaker 2+ printer, a Matter and Form scanner, a Doodle3D box and a laptop. With the Matter and Form scanner, you can scan a small object, save the file and print it using the 3D printer. The Doodle3D allows you to draw your own design using a smart phone, tablet or the library’s laptop and print it to the 3D printer.
The printer will primarily use nGen filament for printing. nGen is produced with Eastman Amphora™ AM3300 3D polymer, has good opaque quality, the highest possible brightness, is low-odor and styrene-free. Amphora AM3300 is more workable at a wider breadth of temperatures, producing reliable results and resulting in less waste.
The 3D Polymer can be made into high-quality filament that exhibits advanced overhang ability, excellent looks, and large printing temperature range—empowering users to create durable and useful items.
For more information about how to get started, please contact the reference staff at 224-2539 or visit www.kingsportlibrary.org.