The printer is located in the Lower Floor Lobby of the Library. It will be made available on a self-serve, first-come first-served basis.
Please see the 3D Printing Policy (PDF) for more information on accessing the printer. 

Printer Information

Model: FlashForge Creator Pro

Maximum Print Size: 22.5cm x 14.5cm x 15cm

Material: PLA

Colours: Red, Yellow, Blue, Black, White, Beige (subject to change)

Documentation: 3D Printing Policy, User Guide

What do I need to do to use the 3D printer? 

• Bring your model (.stl file) in on a USB drive (must be on a USB drive, not attached to an email)
• Sign in at the Library Service Desk and read the 3D Printing Policy document
• Prepare and print your model (See the 3D Printing User Guide for help)
• Pay for your print at the Library Service Desk 

What is 3D Printing?

It is a process that allows you to create a real world version of a digital 3D model or design. 

Our printer uses a type of technology called FDM (Fused Deposition Modelling). This type of printer uses a "a string of solid material [plastic] called the filament. This line of filament is guided from a reel attached to the 3D printer to a heated nozzle inside of the 3D printer that melts the material. Once in a melted state, the material can be extruded on a specific and predetermined path created by the software on the computer. As the material is extruded as a layer of the object on this path, it instantly cools down and solidifies - providing the foundation for the next layer of material until the entire object is manufactured." (Description from 3dhubs.com)

See the 3D printing User Guide for more information

What material will my printed object be made of?

The Library uses a type of plastic filament called PLA (polylatic acid). It is not quite as strong as some other types of 3D printing materials and it can warp under moderate amount of heat (a figure sitting on the dashboard of a hot car can start to lose its shape) but it is cost effective and has very little odor when melted. 

How much does it cost?

$2.00 + $0.10/g

Library staff will weigh and calculate total price once the print is complete. See our User Guide for instructions on getting a weight estimate for your print.