Between the Engineering Library and the Engineering Technology Centers we have the resources available to help prototype and develop ideas.
Resources in the Library
Prototyping Station – “Introductory”
Located along the wall in the Creative Space, the Prototyping Station has parts and an assortment of materials to begin building and tinkering. Please feel free to take and use what you need and be considerate of others using the space
Bambu Lab P1S – “Intermediate”
The Engineering Library has 2 Bambu Lab P1S 3D printers located in the Creative Space (2001C SC). The Bambu Studio software to prepare files for printing is available on the computer next to the 3D Printers. It is the responsibility of the user to monitor the print for errors – staff do not regularly monitor for issues but may stop a print if something is reported. The max print size is 256x256x256 mm.
- Contact the Engineering Electronics Shop for larger models to learn about options
- Video Tutorials
Colors typically available include (exact selection of colors currently available may vary):
- Bright green
- Blue
- Bambu green
- Orange
- Brown
- Silver
- Light gray
- Red
- Mistletoe green
- Gold
- Black
- Bronze
- Beige
- Jade white
- Pink
- Cyan
- Gray
- Yellow
- Purple
Terms of Use
The 3D Printer being available in the Creative Space is a privilege and the following policies can be updated as needed and the 3D Printer removed from the space without notice.
- Users are permitted 1 print/day.
- Only library-purchased filament, PLA Basic, is allowed – 3D printer filament is not food safe.
- Printer is for personal, non-commercial, purposes only.
- User is responsible for watching the 3D Printer while model is being created to ensure print is correct and without error.
- Employees do not edit files, create, or print items for users – but are available for help with specific questions about operation of the Printer. Email James Cox with questions
- No weapons, parts for weapons, weapon accessories, or weapon replicas may be produced with the equipment. Equipment may not be used to create or view obscene or inappropriate content including violent or gory content, sexually explicit content, content that promotes or condones intimidation or violence against individuals or groups based on race or ethnic origin, religion, disability, gender, age, nationality, veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity or, any other object which violates University of Iowa Policies.
- Employees reserve the right to deny or cancel any job that does not comply with policy and report the infraction to the proper authority.
Resources from Engineering Design and Fabrication – “Experienced”
Engineering Design and Fabrication is the College of Engineering’s one-stop destination for hands-on innovation. Combining expert machining and electronics services, we empower students, faculty, and researchers to design, prototype, and build with confidence — using industry-grade tools, expert guidance, and a collaborative, safety-first environment.
They offer consumer‑grade 3D printing services for all University of Iowa faculty, staff, and students at a rate of $0.20 per gram. Available filament colors include black, white, red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple, beige, and gray.
This service is intended for print‑ready models. Files are printed as submitted and are not edited. If you need modifications, troubleshooting, or design assistance, please use the Advanced 3D Printing service.
More information can be found on the 3D Printing Page
Engineering Design and Fabrication
G450 Seamans Center
319-384-0790
engr-edf@uiowa.edu
To learn more please visit Engineering Design and Fabrication Webpage.