Ultimaker 3D Printers & Cura Software

Introduction to 3D printing with Ultimaker

Using Cura to prepare 3D models to print

Cura is the software used by our Ultimaker 3D printers for preparing a model for printing. Cura is not used for creating 3D models.

Once you have the 3D model you'd like to print, you can import the file into Cura. Users will be able to scale, rotate, and duplicate the object as needed. The software provides a visual of the printing bed, and all prints must fit within that space.

Models will also have a fill amount that determines how much of the model's interior will be filled with plastic. This is set to 20% by default. The more dense the fill, the longer the print will take and the more plastic filament it will consume.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I make or modify my own 3D models?

If you are looking for software to create models, consider using Tinkercad, SketchUp, MeshMixer, or Blender.

How big can I make my print?

A print on the Ultimaker 2 Extended could be as large as 8.8 x 8.8 x 12 inches; however, this would likely exceed Design Center restrictions on print time. For projects requiring a print volume greater than this, you will need to break the model into smaller pieces and assemble it later.

Are there time limits on a single print?

Print times generally need to be kept under 12 hours except with special permission.