How does it work?
The 3D printer's software takes a digital model of a 3D object and "slices" it into layers.
This prepared, sliced model tells the printer where to move the nozzle and platform as it melts and extrudes filament to create the object. The extruded filament re-solidifies almost instantly.
How can I use it?
Reserve time on the 3D printer computer to set up and slice your print, and send it to the print queue.
If you know how long your print will take, you can also contact staff to book the printer for a certain time. But you don't need to! If the printer is available when you are on site to prepare your print, you can start it right away. If not, you can queue your prepared print for later. Either way, you can come back to pay and pick it up when the print is complete.
How long my 3D print will take? How do I find out?
You can estimate the print time only by setting up your print in the slicing software.
Please note that an estimated print time does not guarantee a successful print at the end of that time. Prints sometimes fail and have to be re-started or re-queued.
The estimate also does not take into account the time taken to get the printer to temperature or change the filament.
3D prints can take anywhere from minutes to hours, depending on many factors like size and shape of the model, the print settings like scale, orientation, support structures, and infill, and also depending on the printer used. The only way to confidently estimate the time is to prepare the print.
File Types
The 3D model is a different file type from the and prepared print.
The model only identifies where the object is and is not on a 3-dimensional grid.
The prepared print has "sliced" the model into layers that include an infill pattern and shell layers, and may include support structures, depending on the settings and how these apply to the 3D model.
The settings generate a code which tells the printer where to move, what temperature to heat to for the chosen material, how fast to travel, how thick to make the layers, and more.
The standard file format for the 3D models is STL. Other formats may work, too.
The prepared print made by applying print settings to the STL file is called a G-code.
Patrons are responsible for preparing their 3D model in the printer's software to generate a G-code.
The G-code will also tell you approximately how long your print will take and how much material it will use, which you can use to determine how much the material will cost.
STL File Sources
Not sure where to start? Try Thingiverse for free 3D models shared under a Creative Commons license, or Tinkercad to design your own models from any web browser with a free account.
Patrons may bring their files from other sources, whether designed themselves, purchased online, or shared in another online community, as long as they can be inserted in the slicer.
Materials
All NCPL's 3D printers use PLA filament.
PLA is a plant-based bioplastic that comes in a wide range of colours and prints fairly reliably.
In the Simcoe Branch, you also have the option to use a wider range of materials for special purposes with one of the printers.
The slicing software gives an estimated weight before you print, and scales are also provided.
A variety of PLA filament options are available in each MakerSpace with a 3D printer. Selection varies. All MakerSpace material prices are listed below.
Where can I use it?
3D printers are located in:
- TD MakerSpace at the Delhi Branch
- Friends of the Library MakerSpace at the Port Dover Branch
- John Race MakerSpace in the Simcoe Branch
- Waterford MakerSpace at the Waterford Branch
