3D Printing
3D printers let you print 3D objects. Ready-to-print designs can be downloaded using the internet, or you can make your own custom creation using design software. 3D printers have a wide range of uses including prototyping new inventions, creating replacement parts, designing unique jewelry or household items, and more.
In the SPL MakerSpace, you will find two Bambu Labs Carbon X1 3D printers. These printers feature a 26x26x26 cm heated print bed with Lidar Input-shaping and auto-leveling. They print using PLA (Polylactic Acid). PLA is a plant-based corn product that is biodegradable, so the environmental impact is lessened. For advanced users, these machines are capable of printing multiple colours.
You can create your own designs for free using Tinkercad, a computer-aided design (CAD) program that is easy, intuitive and child friendly too. Or, you can grab a ready-made file from Thingiverse, Printables, or Pinshape, repositories of 3D designs that are free to use.
Get Started with 3D Printing:
- Visit the MakerSpace during Open Labs to learn how to use the 3D printer
- If you are familiar with 3D design and printing, submit a 3D design for printing online
- Visit the program calendar to see the next 3D design workshop
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3D Printer Acceptable Use Agreement
Stratford Public Library offers 3D printing services in the MakerSpace. Makers that are using the 3D printer must adhere to the 3D Printer Acceptable Use Agreement and agree to the SPL MakerSpace Guidelines for Use. The Rules of Conduct and Internet Access policy also apply to the SPL MakerSpace.
Before you begin printing, please review the Acceptable Use Agreement.
- The 3D Printer is available for the public to use during Open Lab hours in the MakerSpace and during specific programs
- Users of the Library MakerSpace and 3D printer must have a valid library card from a library in Perth County.
- Stratford Public Library is not responsible for the functionality and quality of content produced using the 3D printer.
- Patrons are not to change the settings on the 3D printer at any time. These settings have been configured based on appropriate settings for the printer. If you require assistance, ask a staff member or volunteer.
- Staff reserve the right to cancel a print job at any time or to refuse to print items if they violate Stratford Public Library policies, are harmful, or are unlawful.
- Print jobs are limited to 2.5 hours
- Items printed from the SPL MakerSpace 3D printers that are not picked up within 14 days become property of the library.
- Printing costs are $0.10 per gram of filament. The cost of the print will be charged to the Maker's library account and must be paid for at Stratford Public Library.
Health and Safety Considerations:
- Do not open the printer door while printing is in progress.
- Do not put your hand inside of the printer while it is operating. The internal temperature of the 3D printer gets very hot during printing.
- Do not remove your object from the printer until the build plate has cooled to 45 Celsius or below. This will ensure that you do not burn your fingers and will prevent the object from warping.
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Costs
Filament is .10 cents per gram. An average print job ranges from $1 to $10 depending on size and density.
Prints must be done using library provided filament.
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3D Printing FAQ
1. How much does a 3D print cost?
3D prints cost $0.10 per gram of filament used. An average print job, which will fit in the palm of your hand, ranges from $1 to $10 depending on the size and density. Larger prints may be possible, but they can become costly. Please speak to a MakerSpace staff member before submitting a large print.
2. How long will it take to print?
Print time is specific to each job and how many prints are already waiting to be printed. It’s best to submit your print job as soon as you are ready as the print queue can be up to 2 or 3 weeks long. We do not guarantee that prints will be completed in a specific time period.
3. What materials can I print?
For the most part, we print in PLA (polylactic acid) which is a plant-based plastic. Depending on the type of print and what materials are in stock, we may be able to print in other materials (PETG, carbon fiber).
4. Is 3D printing food safe?
Typically no. Some filaments have food-safe properties, however, due to print head contamination and layer lines there is no sure way to ensure your object will be food safe.
5. Can I print in multiple colours?
Yes, however please come to the MakerSpace during Open Lab hours so that staff can review your print. Colour prints can be very time-consuming and will be completed at the discretion of the staff. Colour prints done in single colour layers (like a licorice all sort) are much faster and more likely to be printed.
6. Can I submit a 3D print from home?
Absolutely! Just use our online 3d print submission form. If this is your first time printing, please visit the MakerSpace during Open Lab hours to walk through the process with a staff member or experienced volunteer. https://splibrary.ca/submitaprint
7. Can you scan this part? I need a new one.
No, we do not have a 3d scanner in the MakerSpace. If it’s a simple part, we may be able to give your guidance on how to model it yourself.
8. Will you recreate this object for me in CAD?
The MakerSpace does not provide design work however we can guide you as you learn to measure and design simple objects. We also often run 3D Design programs to help you along your journey. 3D design requires some training, and it will likely take time before you get the results you are seeking.
3D Printing Overview