DME Lab 3D Printing Services have been improved! For beginners, we now offer several drop-in times where staff assist first-time users in trying out the printers for brief, 20-minute prints. During these blocks, staff will help you print out eligible items and provide information on how to book our 3D printers.
Returning users are reminded that they must complete the refreshed 3D Printing Certification Training in D2L.
The Digital Media Experience Lab provides 3D printing access to all TMU students and employees at no cost.
The Lab offers two no-cost 3D printing services to TMU Libraries users:
- Staff-Assisted Printing – Ideal for beginners or occasional users who need to 3D print simple objects. This service operates on Prusa MK3/4S Printers. All prints are scheduled, no drop-ins.
- Self-Serve Printing – Perfect for anyone who wishes to modify settings or 3D print multiple objects. This services is run on high speed Bambu Labs printers.
Option 1: Staff-Assisted Scheduled Prusa 3D Printing Service
If you are a beginner looking to try out 3D printing from the comfort of your web browser, we highly suggest the DME Lab’s Prusa MK4S Printers. Use this option if you do not need complete control over all 3D printer settings and are interested in exploring 3D printing.
During this quick workshop, we’ll offer you a menu of 3D models that you’ll be able to select from. Then, with staff support, you’ll print a file out on Prusa MK4S equipment. Current models include: fidget spinners, a mini SLC building, and more.
If you’d like to continue 3D printing on your own after the workshop, let us know during the drop in. We offer a simple certification option for you to submit prints to our scheduled print service.
Option 2: Self-Operated Bambu 3D Printing Service
The DME has 5x Bambu A1 printers (PLA-only) and 1x Bambu X1 Carbon. Certified users can book printers through our D2L, with (new!) daily first come-first served drop-in bookings between the hours of 10:30 AM – 1 PM.
After training, you can use a single printer for up to 2.5 hours – perfect for iterating through multiple prototypes or even prints with multiple parts:
- Pass the self-guided 3D Printing knowledge training + knowledge quiz (online, self-paced).
- Book an in-person 3D printing equipment test before printing.
- Apply for your optional LinkedIn / open badge.
Notes: Users must adhere to all TMU Libraries and University policies. You must be present at the lab for the duration of your print and you will need to check in with a staff member before all prints.
Frequent Questions
3D Printing FAQs
How long does my 3D printer certification last for? Our 3D printer submission systems have been configured to verify that you have completed a DME 3D printing workshop before you can book a print. Generally speaking, certifications are valid for one academic year after they have been completed. If in doubt, please check in with dme-advising@torontomu.ca or sign up for a workshop through our website.
How much does it cost to print at the DME? Library users are not charged fees to print at the DME. As long as you fall within the the guidelines below, the TMU Libraries will subsidize PLA filament costs for lab users.
How long can I print for? Printing time varies based on the service that you are requesting. Staff-assisted prints on the Prusa printers are limited to 2.5 hours per print / 6 hours of printing time per week when using complimentary material. For lab users opting to bring their own filament, the booking limit can be extended up to 6 hours per day. Our self-service printers (Bambu Labs A1 model) are limited to 2.5 hours per print / 6 hours printing time per week. The Lab’s Bambu X1 Carbon – our bring your own filament printer – is limited to 3 hours per print / 4 hours maximum per week. Overnight prints are considered on a case-by-case basis for coursework and final year projects.
How long will my print take? This depends on many factors. However, you will learn how to get a print time estimate by following the training in our D2L course shell. Your total print time cannot exceed your booking slot.
What am I allowed to print? You can print anything you would like, with the exception of drug paraphernalia, weapons (of any kind), and items flagged as offensive by Library staff.
Do I have to stay for the entire booking slot? You only need to stay for the first 20 minutes of your print on the Prusa printers. If you are printing on a self-serve Bambu model printer, please be prepared to stay for your entire booking slot.
Can I choose the colour? Filament colours vary throughout year based on inventory levels. Specific colours are not guaranteed. However, users may bring in their own pre-approved filament from our tested products list in D2L.
Can I bring my own filament? If you have project-specific filament needs and wish to provide your own PLA or PETG filament, please consult a staff member. We have pre-approved several filaments that you may choose from.
Are there any exceptions to the time limit? Overnight prints are available to support coursework with the condition that users provide their own filament. Please submit your print via our D2L course shell system if you’d like to utilize this option.
Can I print multiple items at the same time? Yes, however, careful preparation is required in order for staff to approve your print. We strongly advise using the “print by object” and thoroughly cleaning the print bed (to remove oils and dust) at the start of your booking. You will be responsible for watching your print at all times.
What happens if I miss my 3D printing booking? If you are more than 15 minutes late for your booking, your booking will automatically be cancelled and the time will become available to others. Please help us maximize access to this popular service by canceling your booking if you know you cannot make it.