3D printing
3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is a way to make three-dimensional objects from a digital file.
3D printing creates objects by adding material layer by layer. Imagine stacking very thin slices of material on top of each other until the whole object is formed. Each slice is like a tiny piece of the final object.
Our libraries have 3D printers available for our community.
How to use our 3D printers
Want to give 3D printing a try? Follow these steps.
1. Get your 3D model file ready (You can find some ready-made models from Thangs or make your own using TinkerCAD or Blender).
2. Submit the form below.
We are currently having delays in responding to printing requests.
We know getting your prints on time is important and we're working to get better. We're sorry for any trouble this causes, and thank you for waiting.
If you need help right away, please email Angela McDonald or Pru Simpson.
3. We will review the model and provide a quote by email based on material used.
4. Once the quote is accepted, the model will be added to print queue.
5. We will let you know once the print is ready for collection.
Our 3D printer
The library uses a Flashforge Adventurer 4 printer and we use FlashPrint as the slicer.
Maximum print size
The maximum print size (also known as build volume) our 3D printers can produce is 220(w) x 200(d) x 250(h) millimetres.
This printer can help you get started with desktop digital fabrication. For mass production, large or complicated jobs, like replicating many parts, we suggest looking at local commercial printing services.
Pricing
$0.10 per gram
The weight of any support material required to print your model is included in the price.
Material usage calculation is done by the slicer software.
Printing material
The library prints using PLA plastic filament, which is biodegradable and non-toxic, though NOT food safe. Colour will be random.
We do not print:
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Weapons
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Copyrighted designs without permission
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If you are printing such an item, we will require proof of permission.
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Objects that are obscene or otherwise inappropriate for the library environment.
The library reserves the right to refuse any 3D print request.
Safety note
The filament we use is not high-strength and we do NOT recommend using objects made on our printer anywhere they may cause a safety concern (car parts, etc.)
Print failures
Sometimes prints fail. It could be a problem with the model file, the printer, or the filament. We will do our best to print your model and work with you to get it done. We will make one more attempt at printing at no additional charge if the initial print fails.
Finishing
Library staff will not be doing any cleaning and removal of support material. Clean-up and assembly of multi-part models is left to you.
Waiting time
Printing wait times can vary depending on the items being printed and the length of the queue. The library will do our best provide an accurate estimation.
Conditions of Use
- The Library’s 3D printer is available to the public to make three-dimensional objects in plastic using a design that is uploaded from a digital computer file.
- The Library’s 3D printer may be used only for lawful purposes. The public will not be permitted to use the Library’s 3D printer to create material that is:
- Prohibited by law.
- Unsafe, harmful, dangerous or poses an immediate threat to the well-being of others. (Such use may violate the terms of use of the manufacturer.)
- Obscene or otherwise inappropriate for the Library environment.
- In violation of another’s intellectual property rights. For example, the printers will not be used to reproduce material that is subject to copyright, patent or trademark protection.
- The Library reserves the right to refuse any 3D print request.
- Cost: $0.10 per gram
- Items printed from Library 3D printer that are not picked up within 7 days will become property of the Library. Items must be picked up by the individual who printed them.
- Only Library staff will have hands-on access to the 3D printer unless otherwise instructed on site.
- Library will add additional support materials to the model if deemed required.
- Library staff will not be doing any cleaning and removal of support material.
- Library would make one more attempt at printing at no additional charge if the initial print failed.
Please note that condition governing the use of the Library’s 3D printers are subject to change.
Read our full 3D printer conditions of use policy before you fill in the form.
If you require any help, please email [email protected]