3D Printing Library

What is 3D Printing?
3D Printing or Additive Manufacturing (AM) is the process of creating physical objects from a digital model. This technology was developed in the 1980s; until recently it was mostly used by engineers and industry. Recent advancements in 3D modelling software and manufacturing have decreased the cost of 3D Printing, while reducing threshold knowledge required to use the technology.

3D Printing for Military Application
Many militaries are conducting research into in-field manufacturing aimed at reducing overall logistical burdens. The ubiquitous nature of 3D printed drones and munitions on the modern battlefield indicates the Canadian Armed Forces should become more familiar with the technology and integrate 3D printing into the field force and institutional support.

Using the 3D Printing Library
Professional Military Education (PME) has developed a basic set of 3D model files to be used by CAF units. Although the files are intended for use on the Army Operations Course and for Professional Development, there are many applications outside the classroom and command post. The STL Library has two distinct aims, first to increase the knowledge of 3D Printing in the CA and secondly to provide the easily accessible tools for CA personnel.

STL Files
There are many 3D modelling programs available to the public which are used to create digital objects. The files located on the LoS 3D Printing Library are in STL format (stereolithographic file format) intended for printing. Most 3D modelling programs such as Tinkercad, AutoCAD, Sketchup or SolidEdge will export 3D files in this format. Additionally, some of the files are available in 3D Manufacturing Format (3MF), which includes information regarding materials, colours and other information not represented in the STL Format. This is intended to allow for multicolour and plug and play printing.

3D Printing Options
Although many units will have access to a 3D Printer, the Canadian Army has 3D printing equipment at the Army Learning Support Centre, who can be engaged to print 3D models of military equipment. Because the files are open-source, feel free to download the files at home, and print them on your personal 3D printer.

Copyright
Although the files on this site fall under Crown Copyright, you do not require permission to reproduce or modify these files, so long as the following criteria are met:

• the reproduction is used in a lawful manner;
• the reproduction is used in accordance with Defence Administrative Order and Directive 7021-1 ; and
• the reproduction is used for personal or public non-commercial use or for cost-recovery use.

NATO Military Symbology © 1986 North Atlantic Treaty Organization. All rights reserved.

Questions?
If you have any general questions about our 3D Printing files or have your own files you would like to share with the wider CA PME community, send us an email, CACSCPME@forces.gc.ca.