Special Resources – Nanaimo Harbourfront Branch

What is 3D Printing?

3D printing is a process of making three dimensional solid objects from a digital file. Our Lulzbot Taz6 3D printer uses additive manufacturing processes. In an additive process, an object is created by building the object layer by layer moving up the Z-axis until the entire object is created. 3D printing is often used to create prototypes, toys, hobby items and replacement parts.

The Process

Patrons can either email cc@virl.bc.ca with an STL file or link to a thingiverse page with specifications about size, and filament colour; or they can use this form to request upstairs computer access for the purpose of looking up files or playing in tinkercad.

Due to high demand, the 3D printers are not available for immediate use or patron printing designs themselves. We are happy to share about the process of printing though, if you would like to come in and learn more!

Filament options include one of the following:

• Black
• White
• Silver
• Grey
• Red
• Pink
• Orange
• Yellow
• Green
• Blue
• Purple

Printing Costs

A printing fee of $.10 per gram of filament will be charged for each print job.
Some print jobs will require support to be printed and a finished models will be weighed with support.

Payment for 3D prints is made when you pick up your print from your branch (yes! That’s right! We can ship 3D prints to other VIRL branches). A slip outlining the cost and your contact details will be included with the print.

Rules

• You must have an active Vancouver Island Regional Library card.
• Printing weapons and items prohibited by the Vancouver Island Regional Library’s code of conduct are not allowed.
• Print times are limited to 3 hours per print per day
• Print jobs must be completed during library hours within half an hour before closing.
• You must be 16 years or older or accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times.

Classes and Programs

Introduction to 3D printing

Learn how 3D printers work and how you can print in the creativity commons. This class includes hands on instruction with Cura and how to prepare your model for print.

3D Design

Learn to edit, modify and design your own 3D models using open source software such as Tinkercad and Blender.

Meet our Printer: LulzBot Taz 6

The Lulzbot Taz 6 has a robust set of features including a self leveling bed,  a heated bed and a self cleaning nozzle simplifying the printing process. Our Taz 6 is equipped with the modular tool head and prints using PLA filament.

Technical Specifications

Layer Resolution: 0.05mm—0.4mm
Print Surface: Heated Bed, Borosilicate Glass
Print dimensions: 280mm x 280mm x 250 mm

3D Printing Resources

3D Printing Demonstrations

3D print time-lapse’s of library prints.

Tinkercad

Tinkercad is a free, easy-to-use browser app for 3D design.

Blender

Blender is an open source 3D creation suite. It supports 3D modeling, rigging, animation, simulation, rendering, compositing, motion
tracking, video editing and game creation.

Thingiverse

Thingiverse is a website dedicated to the sharing of user-created digital design files that can be downloaded and printed on a desktop 3D
printer.

Cura LulzBot Edition

Cura is a free software that prepares and converts your model into a GCODE which can then be read by our 3D printer generate your model.