For five years I have been working with 3D Printers of all types and have printed with over 20 different filaments from PLA to PETG and even Bronze. Some of these filaments when heated to over 205 degrees C to melt them for extrusion give off no noticeable odor Some, like ABS, Polycarbonate and Nylon do emit an odor. Often  a very strong odor.

It is also known that some measure of small sub-micron sized particles are released during the printing process as the extruder moves the heated filament from the nozzle to the build platform. Gases and particulate that are, perhaps,  benign in small quantities but potentially harmful in large quantities or over long terms of exposure.

Pure Air Systems along with its partner, LiteWorld LLC , have developed a plexiglas enclosure with two large access doors that will fit over most large bed 3D printers allowing for two benefits. First, the enclosure has a fan and carbon media filter to capture any odors that might be produced by the materials during the printing process. Second, the unit will significantly minimize the amount of fine airborne particles that are emitted during the printing process.

Air filtration for your 3D printer is perhaps something you don’t think about but it should be on your radar at this point in the evolution of 3D printers. Especially the FDM or FFF printers that use filament in the 1.75 mm or 2.85 mm size range.

The other reason for the use of the enclosure is the safety it provides in keeping little hands out of the moving mechanisms and from the very hot nozzle and build platform. Many schools are now requiring the use of an enclosure to fit over the printer to keep them free from any liability when used in the classroom.

For more information on the complete line of air filtration systems from Pure Air Systems please go to our website at: https://www.pureairsystems.com or call us at 800-869-8025. Or you can go to http://www.liteworldllc.com  for more information on the enclosure.

Post Tags: air filters for 3D printers filters technology

Post Comments

About the Author: Don Musilli

My name is Don Musilli. I started Pure Air Systems in 1985 and then sold it in 2006. I continue to consult for PAS and write their blog and control their Twitter account. I also, on occasion, make changes to the website. The company is now almost 26 years old and has been a major player in offering commercial grade, high performance HEPA and Carbon based filtration systems for the commercial, institutional, industrial and residential markets.

I currently reside in Englewood, Florida where I write blogs and do social media marketing for a number of clients.

Stay In The Loop

Don't miss out! Like us on Facebook, Follow us on Twitter or subscribe to our RSS Feed and get our latest posts.