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TechHub: 3D Printing @ TechLab

3D Printing @ TechLab

a 3D print lab with several printers on tables

3D Printing @ TechLab

The Caltech Library Techlab provides members of the Caltech community hands-on access to innovative rapid prototyping technologies to support the Institute's research and educational mission.

Students, faculty, postdocs, and staff can register for open access to our 3D printing equipment. We provide new user training and materials needed to create prototypes of 3D models. Previous experience with the equipment is not required.

 

Register for new user training

 

 

Lab Printers Upgraded

Thanks to a generous gift to the Library, with funds earmarked for the TechHub, the print lab was updated with Bambu X1 Carbon printers in 2024.
As the new slicing software and operation of these Bambu printers is sufficiently different from past practices, returning users will need to stop in for a brief update on the new process before resuming open access to the lab. 
Bambu X1 Carbon

Slicing Your Model

The general 3D printing workflow starts with a 3D model, exported as an .STL or .OBJ file, which is then put into software that slices it into layers and outputs as 3MF (3D Manufacturing Format) file, basically a set of instructions/toolpaths for the machines to follow.

OrcaSlicer is one of many applications that slices your model into layers and converts it to printer-specific 3MF. OrcaSlicer is a free, open-source software which can be installed and downloaded here: https://orca-slicer.com
It has been preloaded on all TechHub workstations, but occasionally users may be prompted for information as if it was being run for the first time. Please see the selections below.

Installing OrcaSlicer

Download latest stable build here: https://orca-slicer.com

After running the installer, make the following selections during the first launch of the software

  1. Set local region to North America
  2. Set Printer Selection to Bambu Lab X1 Carbon
  3. Leave filament selection as is.
    Note: only PLA will be used in the print lab, but you may want other material options if preparing a file for Library staff to run on your behalf on another printer outside of the lab.
  4. Skip past Stealth Mode
  5. Check box to Install Bambu Network plug-in if you were prompted for these steps on a lab workstation.
  6. Finally, set the bed type to Textured PEI Plate once you are in OrcaSlicer and ready to prepare your model for printing.
    This is the only bed type used in the print lab.
    Textured PEI plate