By Harrison James IV / Staff Writer

Missouri Valley College’s library has introduced its newest addition — the Bambu Lab P1S, a state-of-the-art 3D printer. Designed to support student creativity, innovation and hands-on learning, the printer will be available for academic projects, club initiatives and personal exploration.

Whether studying biology, engineering or art, students will now be able to transform their ideas into models right on campus.

Daniel Wright, evening library assistant, said the new technology brings exciting opportunities.

“3D printers use a thermoplastic material, better known as filament, that is fed into the machine and melted to create the desired design,” Wright said. “There are several types and colors out there. It is important for students to know that there are special filaments that are food safe. We do not have the food-safe filament in the Valley Innovation Lab, but there are so many designs that can be created with the 3D printer.”

Print times, Wright explained, depend on the size and complexity of a project.

“A small, single-color item can be finished in minutes,” he said. “More intricate, multicolor projects can take hours to print. Any student is welcome to come to the Valley Innovation Lab when we are open to design and print.”

As for restrictions, Wright said the lab will adapt as needed.

“At this time we do not have any restrictions, but with new things we will learn as we go and modify to make the 3D printer process more efficient,” he said. “We are in the final stages of getting the 3D printer up and running, but we are hoping to have it done very soon.”

MVC student Brayden Hayes said he sees benefits in bringing 3D printing to campus.

“I think this would bring more revenue and be good for the college as well,” Hayes said.