Introduction to 3D Printing

The Camden Public Library will offer “An Introduction to 3D Printing” at 2:00 pm on Sunday, July 24. The session is one of the library’s regular “Cyber Sunday” tech session led by staff wizard Olga Zimmerman. The introduction will cover what 3d printing is, how to prepare files for printing on the library’s new 3D printer, and how and when the printer will be available, as well as the cost of printing, and the materials and colors for the filaments used to create the 3D objects. Olga will also have creative tips on how to make good use of a 3D printer.

3D Printing is the action or process of making a physical object from a three-dimensional digital model, typically by laying down many thin layers of a material in succession. If you can design it, a 3D printer can print it. From body organs to jet fighter parts to a kindergarten project, 3D printing is used today in a wide variety of ways with unlimited possibilities. As the cost of 3D printing goes down, each person has an opportunity to experiment with personally manufacturing a single item.

The Camden Public Library’s mission is to offer access to technology for the community, whether through our print collections or the availability of new technologies as they become available: computers, printers, scanners, telescopes, iPads, and e-books. “Now we are proud to offer a 3D printer, the current new technology which is in wide use in many industries throughout the world!” said Zimmerman. “And this year we’ll host the 4th annual Midcoast Mini Maker Faire, a celebration of making!”

“Creating an opportunity for community members to design and print throughout the year has long been our goal. We currently have one LulzBot Mini 3D Printer which will be on display in the Rotunda when not in use,” she added. The LulzBot brand is made in the USA and has been around for several years. This model prints objects up to 6x6x6.2 inches. The filament is plant-based, recyclable PLA plastic (#7). PLA does not contain BPA and no safety concerns have been raised about using it with food. PLA is not heat resistant.

Everyone in the community is welcome to use the 3D printing service. However, only trained library staff will handle the 3D printer and associated equipment. Printing cost is $0.15 per gram of filament. Total cost is based on the estimate given by the printing software program after you submit your design. Printing fees are collected at the Circulation Desk at time of pickup. Most 3D print items cost $5 or less, based on the maximum print area of 6x6x6.2 inches. Printing times vary based on size, complexity, and any backlog.

To create a 3D file for printing, visit the Resources page at the library’s website (http://librarycamden.org/3d-printing-overview/) for modeling software, design libraries, and tutorials. Choose or create a 3D model to print and save the model as .stl file (maximum size 50 MB), then submit your 3D printing request via the form on our website. Contact the library with questions at 3DPrinting@librarycamden.org.