3D PRINTING

The Moose Jaw Public Library offers 3D Printing to the public.* Check out the information on this page to learn more about the process.

*Filament cost is $.05/g and will include all material used in the printing process. The Library accepts cash or cheque only.

Getting Started

Before you start, check out our 3D printing FAQ section to find the answers to our most asked questions regarding 3D printing.

3D Printing FAQ's
- What is 3D printing?
  
  3D printing is a process that turns your 3D digital models into 3 dimensional objects via additive manufacturing.
- What can you make?
  
  3D printing can be used to make replacement parts, board game components, design prototypes, fidget toys, tools, and even art pieces. But the only real limit is what you can imagine! Check the links in resources at the bottom of the page for 3D printing sites that provide lots of free .STL files!
  
  *Please take note that 3D prints are not food safe so any cups, cookie cutters, etc., are not recommended as 3D printed objects have many small plastic layers which are breeding grounds for bacteria.
- How do I use the printer?
  
  To use the printer you will fill out a digital request form where you will include the .STL file and indicate your setting preferences. You don’t need a Library Card but we encourage you to support your library by signing up for one!
  
  Once you have filled out the form, we will review the .STL file and let you know if we are able to print it. If we are able to move forward with the printing process we will send a cost estimate where you can approve or disapprove. The filament will cost $.05/g and will include all material used in the printing process.
  
  Once the print job is finished you will receive an email when your print is ready to be picked up. Finished prints will be located at the MJPL. We will not do any post processing work so any support pieces or brims that need to be removed must be done by you. Payment will be made when you pick up your print and we only accept cash.
  
  *An .STL file is the digital 3D model that the printer software needs to create your physical model.
- What kind of printer is it?
  
  We have an Ultimaker S3 which has a build volume 230 x 190 x 200 mm so keep that in consideration if you are designing a 3D model. Our printer is also outfitted with a 0.4 mm nozzle.
  
  We also have a Bambu X1 Carbon fitted with a 0.4 mm nozzle which has a build plate volume of 256 mm x 256 mm x 256 mm.

Printer Settings

We use Bambu Studio on the latest update as our slicer. As a baseline for 3D prints we will be using 15% infill which means that 15% of the interior of the print is filled with plastic. You may change the infill percentage but it could change the quality of the print the higher or smaller the percentage. As well, keep in mind that a higher infill percentage will cost more since more material is needed.

We will be using default supports as a base setting as well as tree supports if necessary. If you opt to not use supports you will be obliged to pay for failed prints.

For most prints we will use a 0.2 mm layer height and for more detailed models we can use 0.12 mm layer height. Different layer height settings can be used on request.

If you change the setting, the library will not be held responsible for the quality of the print. If it fails and the infill is less than 5%, we will still charge for the failed print.

Overview:

15% infill percentage (can be changed on request)

Default supports and tree supports if necessary (other support options can be requested)

0.2 mm layer height for normal prints and 0.12 mm layer height for more detailed prints (layer height can be changed on request)

Request a Print Job

Ready to request a print job? Fill out the form and our Maker Space Technician will get back to you to confirm the price of the print job and await your approval. Once you give approval, we will print your request and send notification once it is done printing. You can pick your print up at the Circulation desk anytime during library hours. Payment is due when pickup is made.

Request a Job