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3D Printing

The Library’s 3D printing service supports the learning of students and our campus community by providing 3D printing access and learning opportunities to all current students, faculty and staff.

Service Guidelines

Who can use the Library 3D printing service 

Library 3D printer use is limited to current students, faculty, and staff of Ontario Tech University and Durham College. 

Cost

  • For each 3D printing request form submission, we charge $0.10 per gram of material (filament) used, unless it is less than $0.50, in which case you will be charged the base amount of $0.50.
  • When you send us a file, we will use our slicing software to calculate the number of grams, and we will then send you the cost. You can choose to approve the cost or not. 

Printer Settings

We have default printer settings, which are outlined below. If you would like to request different or more specific settings, you can tell us on the request form. 

  • Layer height: 0.2mm layer height
  • Infill: 15%
  • Supports: We decide if they are needed, depending on the design. 
  • Orientation on build platform: We decide on the best orientation, depending on the design. 
  • Colour: We use whatever colour is loaded on the 3D printer. We are rarely able to accommodate colour requests due to limited material supply and 3D printer capacity, but you can check with us. 

Payment

Once a file has finished printing, we will send you pickup instructions and add the fee to your Library account. To pay this fee, you will go to your Library account in Omni and Sign in at the top right. Then select: your name at the top right > My Library Account > Fines + fees. This is an online payment system.  

Timelines

  • We aim to respond to requests received through our form within three business days.  
  • Once the requester has approved the cost, we aim to print the file within seven business days. During high demand periods, or if we experience technical problems, these timelines may be longer. 
  • We endeavor to keep you informed when timelines are slower that normal, but please feel free to email us for updates at any time. 

Types of objects the Library will and will not print 

  • The Library prints objects that are connected to users' course-related work, research and personal learning. During high demand periods, we may prioritize objects associated with academic projects.   
  • The Library reserves the right to refuse print jobs that are deemed dangerous or inappropriate. This includes (but is not limited to) items under copyright, any items intended to be sold, items to be used for illegal purposes, and weapons. 

Limitations on printing and print requests 

  • Size: Our largest 3D printers, the Bambu P1S and Ultimaker 2+, have a build size of about 23 cm x 23 cm x 23 cm. Our ability to print larger objects depends on factors such as print time (maximum ten hours) and the availability of the larger 3D printers.
  • Print Time: 3D printing only occurs during designated hours. As a result, the maximum printing time per object is approximately ten hours. 
  • Copies: The Library will not print multiple copies of objects that are intended to be sold commercially, though we may print a prototype. 
  • Requests per user: During high demand periods, the Library may temporarily limit the number of print requests we process per individual user. 

Go to the 3D Printing Request Form. 

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