diff --git a/Important-Dates.md b/Important-Dates.md index 83944e5..849b2c7 100644 --- a/Important-Dates.md +++ b/Important-Dates.md @@ -11,14 +11,17 @@ tags: # Important Dates & Schedule -Mark your calendars for our upcoming 2026 meeting dates (typically the 3rd Wednesday of each month from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM): +Mark your calendars for our upcoming 2026 meeting dates (regularly 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM): -| Date | Event / Theme | Location | -| :--- | :--- | :--- | -| **September 16, 2026** | **Practi"FALL" Prints Challenge Judging** | West Fargo Public Library | -| **October 21, 2026** | **October Meetup & Halloween Prints** | West Fargo Public Library | -| **November 18, 2026** | **November Meetup & Multi-Material Printing** | West Fargo Public Library | -| **December 16, 2026** | **Annual Holiday Maker Showcase** | West Fargo Public Library | +| Date | Event / Theme | Location | Status | +| :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | +| **September 16, 2026** | **Practi"FALL" Prints Challenge Judging** | West Fargo Public Library | Completed | +| **October 28, 2026\*** | **October Meetup & Halloween Prints Challenge** | West Fargo Public Library | **Next Meetup** | +| **November 18, 2026** | **November Meetup & Multi-Material Printing** | West Fargo Public Library | Scheduled | +| **December 16, 2026** | **Annual Holiday Maker Showcase** | West Fargo Public Library | Scheduled | + +> [!NOTE] +> **\*October Schedule Shift:** We are meeting on the **4th Wednesday (October 28, 2026)** instead of the 3rd Wednesday due to meeting room availability at the West Fargo Public Library. ## Meeting Location @@ -43,4 +46,4 @@ West Fargo, ND 58078 --- -**Last Updated**: September 3, 2026 +**Last Updated**: September 17, 2026 diff --git a/Readme.md b/Readme.md index e87925d..1069be5 100644 --- a/Readme.md +++ b/Readme.md @@ -20,6 +20,7 @@ Welcome to the official repository for our monthly 3D printing meetup! This comm - [Community File Share](#community-file-share) - [HueForge Integration](#hueforge-integration) - [Community Tools & Supplies](#community-tools--supplies) +- [Local Businesses for Makers](#local-businesses-for-makers) - [Community Planning & Docs](#community-planning--docs) - [About Our Meetup](#about-our-meetup) - [Join the Discord](https://discord.gg/EAwhSGMaA) @@ -77,10 +78,19 @@ Enhance your HueForge projects with our comprehensive 3D Fuel filament library! Curated 3D printing supplies, recommended tools, and partner discounts: - **3D Fuel Filament Code**: Save on filament with exclusive code **`FARGO3D`** on 3DFuel.com. +- **Snapmaker Discounts**: Referral link and coupon code **`fargo3d`** for Snapmaker hardware and the U1. - **Bed Removal Scrapers**: Safe, flexible tools for PEI build plate print removal. - **Filament Dry Boxes**: Heavy-duty airtight storage options for moisture-sensitive filaments. - **Color-Changing Reusable Desiccant**: High-capacity indicating beads for dry boxes. +## Local Businesses for Makers + +### [Local Businesses Directory](./local-businesses/readme.md) + +Regional manufacturing facilities, additive manufacturing bureaus, and precision machine shops across North Dakota and Minnesota: + +- **[Bifrost Manufacturing (Grand Forks, ND)](./local-businesses/bifrost-manufacturing.md)**: Industrial additive manufacturing specializing in direct metal laser sintering (DMLS in stainless steel, aluminum, titanium, Inconel), powder-bed polymers (SAF & SLS Nylon PA11/PA12, TPU), large-format FDM, and CNC machining. + ## Community Planning & Docs ### [Planning & Developer Documentation](./docs/readme.md) @@ -128,13 +138,14 @@ West Fargo, ND 58078 | **Active Challenge** | Current monthly challenge theme and submission rules | [challenges/current/current.md](./challenges/current/current.md) | | **Challenge Archive** | Archive of all past challenges from 2025-2026 | [challenges/archive/readme.md](./challenges/archive/readme.md) | | **Community File Share** | Shared 3D models and print files (SnapFrames) | [Community File Share/readme.md](./Community%20File%20Share/readme.md) | -| **Tools & Gear** | Recommended tools, storage, and 3D Fuel discounts | [tools/Supporting-Our-Community.md](./tools/Supporting-Our-Community.md) | +| **Tools & Gear** | Recommended tools, storage, and partner discounts | [tools/Supporting-Our-Community.md](./tools/Supporting-Our-Community.md) | +| **Local Businesses** | Regional manufacturing, metal 3D printing, and powder printing services | [local-businesses/readme.md](./local-businesses/readme.md) | | **HueForge Guide** | 3D Fuel color library and setup instructions | [HueForge/README.md](./HueForge/README.md) | | **Ideas & Planning** | Community suggestions and future roadmap | [docs/ideas.md](./docs/ideas.md) | | **Planning & Docs Index** | Developer docs and migration specs | [docs/readme.md](./docs/readme.md) | --- -**Next Meeting**: September 16, 2026 (6:00 PM - 8:00 PM) at West Fargo Public Library. +**Next Meeting**: October 28, 2026 (6:00 PM - 8:00 PM) at West Fargo Public Library. *(Note: Meeting 1 week later than usual due to library room availability).* -**Current Challenge**: Bring your functional prints to the September 16th meetup for [Practi"FALL" Prints](./challenges/current/current.md)! +**Upcoming Challenge**: Get ready for spooky season with [Halloween Prints](./challenges/current/upcoming.md) at our October 28th meetup! diff --git a/announcements/October2026.md b/announcements/October2026.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..c4e9d99 --- /dev/null +++ b/announcements/October2026.md @@ -0,0 +1,53 @@ +--- +title: "October 2026 Meetup Announcement" +category: "announcements" +subcategory: "2026" +order: 202610 +description: "Join Us in October: 3D Printing Meetup + Halloween Prints Challenge (Special Date: Oct 28th)!" +tags: + - announcements + - 2026 +--- + +# 3D Fuel October Meetup - Meeting Announcement + +## Email Subject Line + +Special Date Alert: October 3D Printing Meetup (Oct 28th) + Halloween Prints Challenge! + +--- + +## Email Body + +Hey everyone! + +Mark your calendars—our **October 3D Printing Meetup** has a slight date change for this month! + +> **Special Date Notice:** We are meeting on the 4th Wednesday this month (**Wednesday, October 28th, 2026**) instead of our standard 3rd Wednesday because the library meeting room was unavailable on the 21st. + +For more information about the meetup and community events, visit [www.fargo3d.com](https://www.fargo3d.com) + +**Date: Wednesday, October 28th, 2026** +**Time: 6:00 - 8:00 PM** +**Location**: West Fargo Public Library, 215 Third St. E., West Fargo, ND 58078 + +Come join us for industry updates from John, show & tell, and our spooky October design competition! + +--- + +### October Challenge: Halloween Prints + +Get into the spooky spirit with our **Halloween Prints Challenge**! + +Bring in your best Halloween-themed 3D prints to display and compete for this month's prize. + +**Challenge Guidelines:** +- Bring your **Halloween print** to the October 28th meetup. +- All prints are welcome! + +### Voting & Prizes + +- Everyone attending gets to vote on their favorite Halloween entry based on creativity, print quality, and spooky factor. +- The winner takes home a **free spool of filament**! + +See you on **Wednesday, October 28th** at 6:00 PM! diff --git a/challenges/current/upcoming.md b/challenges/current/upcoming.md index 952a810..b93e5c4 100644 --- a/challenges/current/upcoming.md +++ b/challenges/current/upcoming.md @@ -3,40 +3,49 @@ title: "Upcoming Challenge: October 2026" category: "challenges" subcategory: "current" order: 2 -description: "Preview of upcoming monthly challenges." +description: "October 2026 Halloween Prints challenge details, judging criteria, and submission rules." tags: - challenge - upcoming + - halloween --- [← Back to Challenges Hub](../readme.md) | [Current Challenge](current.md) -# Upcoming Challenge: October 2026 (To Be Determined) +# Upcoming Challenge: October 2026 -## Challenge: [Theme TBD] +## Challenge: Halloween Prints -*Details for the October 2026 challenge are currently being decided. We will announce the full details at the September 16th meetup.* +Embrace the spooky season with our **Halloween Prints** design and printing challenge! From costume props and accessories to animated skeletons and glowing jack-o'-lanterns, bring your best Halloween creation to the October meetup. -### The Focus: [TBD] +> [!NOTE] +> **Date Note:** Judging and show & tell will take place on **Wednesday, October 28th, 2026** (1 week later than usual due to library room scheduling). -*[Focus details to be added]* +### The Focus: Spooky Creativity & Print Craftsmanship + +We are looking for prints that celebrate Halloween! Submissions can be: +- **Costume Props & Wearables**: Helmets, masks, cosplay gear, badges, and wand replicas. +- **Spooky Decor**: Skulls, spiderwebs, ghosts, jack-o'-lanterns with LED tea light openings, and wall hangings. +- **Articulated & Mechanical**: Print-in-place bats, articulated skeletons, or mechanical decorations. +- **Specialty Materials**: Glow-in-the-dark filament, translucent or color-changing materials, and multi-color HueForge art. ### Submission Requirements -* **Physical Model**: Bring your print to the **October** meetup. -* **The Story**: Be ready to tell the group about your creation. +* **Physical Model**: Bring your physical print to the **October 28th, 2026** meetup. +* **Open to All Makers**: You can enter an original CAD design or a community model you printed (from Printables, MakerWorld, Thangs, etc.). +* **The Story**: Be ready to share details about your print with the group (slicer settings, orientation, filament choices, and any post-processing). ### Judging & Prize -* **Voting**: The group will vote on their favorite entry. -* **Prize**: The winner will receive a **free spool of filament**. +* **Voting**: Community members present at the October meetup will cast their votes based on creativity, presentation, and Halloween spirit. +* **Prize**: The winner will receive a **free spool of filament**! ### Timeline -* **Challenge Announcement**: September 16th, 2026 (at September meetup) -* **Show & Tell / Voting**: October 2026 (during October meetup) -* **Winner Announcement**: October 2026 (end of October meetup) +* **Challenge Announcement**: September 16th, 2026 +* **Show & Tell / Voting**: October 28th, 2026 (during the October meetup) +* **Winner Announcement**: October 28th, 2026 (end of the October meetup) --- -**This challenge will become active in October 2026** +**This challenge will become the active challenge for October 2026** diff --git a/docs/update.md b/docs/update.md index 901d005..3a592ec 100644 --- a/docs/update.md +++ b/docs/update.md @@ -92,6 +92,7 @@ The files in `Fargo3d/3DPrintMeetup` map to website sections as follows: | :--- | :--- | :--- | | `challenges/*/readme.md`, `challenges.md` | `challenges` | `/challenges` & `/wiki?path=challenges/...` | | `tools/*.md`, `Supporting-Our-Community.md` | `tools` | `/tools` & `/wiki?path=tools/...` | +| `local-businesses/*.md`, `readme.md` | `local-businesses` | `/wiki?path=local-businesses/...` | | `HueForge/README.md`, `HueForge/3d-Fuel.json` | `hueforge` | `/tools` & `/wiki?path=HueForge/...` | | `announcements/*.md` | `announcements` | `/wiki?path=announcements/...` | | `Readme.md`, `itinerary.md`, `ideas.md` | `meetup` | `/wiki?path=Readme.md` (Home) | diff --git a/local-businesses/bifrost-manufacturing.md b/local-businesses/bifrost-manufacturing.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..87a2b14 --- /dev/null +++ b/local-businesses/bifrost-manufacturing.md @@ -0,0 +1,86 @@ +--- +title: "Bifrost Manufacturing" +category: "local-businesses" +order: 2 +description: "Industrial additive manufacturing and precision machining in Grand Forks, ND, specializing in metal 3D printing, SAF/SLS nylon powders, and large-format FDM." +tags: + - local-business + - metal-printing + - dmls + - sls + - grand-forks +--- + +[← Back to Local Businesses](readme.md) + +# Bifrost Manufacturing + +**Bifrost Manufacturing** is an industrial contract additive manufacturing and precision CNC machining facility based in Grand Forks, North Dakota. They specialize in high-end additive manufacturing for aerospace, defense, energy, and commercial product development. + +For local makers, startups, and engineers, Bifrost provides access to industrial technologies that go far beyond standard desktop 3D printers, including metal laser sintering, powder-bed nylon, and large-format printing. + +--- + +## Company Information + +- **Location**: 2100 Library Circle, Grand Forks, ND 58201 +- **Website**: [bifrostmfg.com](https://bifrostmfg.com) +- **Primary Focus**: Metal additive manufacturing, powder-bed polymer production, large-format FDM, and CNC finishing. + +--- + +## Core Capabilities + +### 1. Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) +Uses high-power fiber lasers to fuse micron-thin layers of metal powder into fully dense, production-ready metal parts with complex geometries impossible to machine traditionally. + +- **Available Materials**: + - **Stainless Steel** (316L, 17-4 PH): Corrosion resistance, high tensile strength. + - **Aluminum** (AlSi10Mg): Lightweight structural components, thermal management. + - **Titanium** (Ti6Al4V): Extreme strength-to-weight ratio, aerospace and marine grade. + - **Tool Steels**: Custom tooling, dies, and wear inserts. + - **Inconel** (718 / 625): High-temperature nickel superalloy for exhaust, turbo, and extreme environments. +- **Best For**: Functional metal brackets, engine components, manifolds, drone frames, and custom tools. + +### 2. Polymer Powder Bed Fusion (SAF & SLS) +Selective Absorption Fusion (SAF) and Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) print parts in a bed of polymer powder without requiring support structures. + +- **Available Materials**: + - **Nylon 11 (PA11)**: High ductility, impact resistance, and flexibility. + - **Nylon 12 (PA12)**: Rigid, dimensionally stable, chemically resistant. + - **Polypropylene (PP)**: Lightweight, fatigue resistant, fluid-tight. + - **Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU)**: Flexible, rubber-like elastomeric parts. + - **Reinforced Composites**: Carbon-fiber and glass-filled blends for maximum rigidity. +- **Advantages**: + - **True Isotropic Strength**: Mechanical properties are nearly identical along the X, Y, and Z axes (unlike layered FDM). + - **Support-Free**: Enables complex internal passages, interlocking assemblies, and nested geometries. + - **Production Economy**: Cost-effective for batches of 10 to 1,000+ units. + +### 3. Large-Format Industrial FDM / FFF +Heavy-duty industrial filament systems equipped with heated chambers and high-temperature hotends. + +- **Available Materials**: PETG, ABS, ASA, Polycarbonate (PC), PA6/PA11/PA12 Nylon, and high-performance polymers (PEI/Ultem). +- **Best For**: Oversized enclosures, functional prototyping, automotive jigs, and parts too large for desktop printers (eliminating the need to cut and glue multi-piece prints). + +### 4. Stereolithography (SLA) +Laser-cured photopolymer resins for high-detail cosmetic models, master patterns for urethane casting, and dental/medical fixtures with smooth surface finishes. + +### 5. CNC Machining & Finishing +Full subtractive machining capabilities to complement 3D printed components: +- CNC milling and turning for critical bearing surfaces and tight-tolerance bores. +- Tapping, threading, and press-fit insert installation. +- Bead blasting, tumble finishing, heat treating, and anodizing. + +--- + +## Maker Guide: Working with Bifrost + +### When to Consider Outsourcing +- **Desktop Limitations**: When a print requires true metal, isotropic nylon, or a build volume larger than ~300x300mm. +- **High Stress & Heat**: Parts exposed to engine heat, outdoor UV/chemical extremes, or high mechanical loads where PLA/PETG will fail or creep. +- **Batch Runs**: When you need 50 to 200 identical pieces and running them one-by-one on home printers would tie up your shop for weeks. + +### File Preparation Tips +1. **CAD File Format**: Export solid models in **STEP (`.step` or `.stp`)** format rather than STL whenever possible. STEP preserves exact curves and geometry for quoting and CNC toolpaths. +2. **Tolerance Notes**: Include a drawing or PDF with critical tolerances, threads, or mating surfaces if post-machining is needed. +3. **Wall Thickness**: Keep minimum wall thicknesses in mind (typically ~0.8mm for SLS nylon, ~1.0mm for DMLS metals). diff --git a/local-businesses/readme.md b/local-businesses/readme.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..34c426a --- /dev/null +++ b/local-businesses/readme.md @@ -0,0 +1,53 @@ +--- +title: "Local Businesses for Makers" +category: "local-businesses" +order: 1 +description: "Regional manufacturing, 3D printing bureaus, machine shops, and fabrication services in North Dakota and Minnesota." +tags: + - local-business + - manufacturing + - services +--- + +[← Back to Home Page](../Readme.md) + +# Local Businesses for Makers + +A directory of regional machine shops, additive manufacturing facilities, laser cutting services, and material suppliers across North Dakota and Minnesota. When a project outgrows desktop 3D printers—whether you need industrial metal sintering, powder-bed nylon parts, large-format enclosures, or precision CNC milling—these local companies can help. + +## Featured Businesses + +| Business | Location | Primary Capabilities | Details | +| :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | +| **Bifrost Manufacturing** | Grand Forks, ND | Metal 3D Printing (DMLS), Powder Bed Fusion (SAF/SLS Nylon), Large-Format FDM, CNC Machining | [View Profile](./bifrost-manufacturing.md) | + +--- + +## Regional Manufacturing Capabilities + +### 1. Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS / Metal 3D Printing) +Print high-strength, production-grade metal components in stainless steel, aluminum, titanium, tool steels, or nickel superalloys (Inconel). Ideal for functional mechanical brackets, high-heat fittings, and custom tooling where plastic filament is inadequate. + +### 2. Powder Bed Fusion (SAF & SLS Nylon / Polymers) +Selective Absorption Fusion (SAF) and Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) fuse powder layers using lasers or thermal absorption. Produces strong, isotropic parts in PA11 and PA12 Nylon, TPU, and carbon-fiber filled blends without requiring support structures. Excellent for mechanical prototypes, snap fits, and small-batch production. + +### 3. Large-Format Industrial FDM / FFF +High-volume extrusion printers with heated chambers capable of running engineering thermoplastics (ABS, ASA, PETG, PC, Nylon, Ultem/PEI) in build envelopes far exceeding standard desktop print beds. + +### 4. High-Resolution Resin (SLA) +Laser-cured photopolymer resins suited for master casting patterns, dental/medical models, and high-detail cosmetic prototypes with smooth surface finishes. + +### 5. CNC Machining & Post-Processing +Precision milling, turning, surface bead blasting, anodizing, and heat treatment to complement additive manufacturing. + +--- + +## Know a Local Business? + +If you run or work with a local shop in the Red River Valley or surrounding areas that offers services for makers, let us know! We welcome additions for: +- Machine shops & waterjet/laser cutting +- Sheet metal fabrication & welding +- Powder coating, anodizing, & finishing +- PCB fabrication & electronics assembly + +Send details to [feedback@fargo3d.com](mailto:feedback@fargo3d.com) or share them on our [Discord](https://discord.gg/EAwhSGMaA). diff --git a/tools/Supporting-Our-Community.md b/tools/Supporting-Our-Community.md index b7a5cf5..14d243a 100644 --- a/tools/Supporting-Our-Community.md +++ b/tools/Supporting-Our-Community.md @@ -7,6 +7,7 @@ tags: - affiliate - tools - filament + - snapmaker --- # Supporting Our Community & Recommended Tools @@ -19,6 +20,13 @@ When you purchase supplies using the affiliate links below, proceeds go directly - **Discount Code**: Use code **`FARGO3D`** at checkout on [3DFuel.com](https://www.3dfuel.com/FARGO3D) for exclusive community savings. - **Support**: A percentage of every order using our code supports our monthly meetup prize pool. +## Snapmaker Discounts + +### Snapmaker U1 and Official Store +- **Referral Link**: [Snapmaker US Store](https://snapmaker-us.myshopify.com?ref=fargo3d) +- **Coupon Code**: Use code **`fargo3d`** at checkout. +- **Support**: Orders placed using our referral link and coupon code help support meetup prize pools, hardware demonstrations, and community supplies. + ## Community-Tested Gear & Supplies ### 3D Print Bed Removal Tools