CONTACT SPL    |     MY ACCOUNT

3D printing of object

3D Printing

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:

 

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 it 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 Plexiglas 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.

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. 

3D Printing Overview