As 3D printers become increasingly common, it’s essential to be aware of the hidden dangers associated with Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) 3D printing. While 3D printing is a remarkable technology, recent research reveals that it might not be as safe as it seems, as FDM machines melt plastic to create objects.
The Health Risks of FDM 3D Printing
A study conducted by the Georgia Institute of Technology has brought to light the concerns surrounding FDM 3D printing. Even with commonly used household filaments, researchers discovered the release of fumes and ultra-fine particles during the printing process. Shockingly, more than 200 different Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), including substances like styrene and formaldehyde, were detected during testing.
Minimizing Health Risks
To mitigate the health risks associated with FDM 3D printing, there are steps that users can take:
- Print in a well-ventilated area to reduce exposure to harmful fumes.
- Build an enclosure for your 3D printer to contain any emissions.
However, one of the most effective methods for preventing inhalation of potentially harmful chemicals is to invest in fume extractors. These devices are designed to eliminate hazardous fumes and particulates generated during the 3D printing process, offering peace of mind to users, their coworkers, friends, family, and even pets.
Introducing BOFA Fume Extractor Systems
BOFA International, an award-winning company specializing in fume and dust extraction solutions, has launched a line of fume extractors tailored for additive manufacturing. In this blog, we’ll focus on the BOFA PrintPRO 3 system and how it’s used in 3D printing shops.
The BOFA PrintPRO 3
The BOFA PrintPRO 3 is a versatile fume extractor designed to work with multiple 3D printers and technologies, not limited to FDM. It effectively removes particulates and gaseous compounds produced during 3D printing processes, ensuring a safer working environment. BOFA even provides free CAD models for creating custom plenums and attachments for your specific printer or enclosure.
How it Works
The BOFA PrintPRO 3 is a compact and quiet unit that can be placed conveniently under a desk, on a table, or beside your 3D printer. It offers different speed settings, with the highest setting capable of handling up to 88 cubic feet per minute. Its filters are cost-effective and last a long time.
This fume extractor uses a three-level filtration system:
- The pre-filter captures fine particulates efficiently.
- The HEPA filter removes 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns.
- The carbon filter effectively captures gases and odors.
These filters ensure the removal of ultra-fine airborne particles, harmful fumes, and unpleasant odors generated during 3D printing.
Custom Attachments
BOFA makes it easy to adapt the system to your specific 3D printer or enclosure. The custom-designed plenums, intake, and exhaust manifolds allow for hassle-free integration with various printers, including the Funmat HT and more. These attachments ensure that the fume extraction is efficient and tailored to your setup.
Safeguard Your Health and Peace of Mind
While the full extent of the dangers associated with 3D printing materials and their off-gassing is not yet fully understood, BOFA fume extractor systems provide an extra layer of safety. They offer peace of mind to 3D printing enthusiasts by significantly reducing the risks of inhaling harmful substances.
Having a fume extractor like the BOFA PrintPRO 3 in your workshop can help eliminate odors and protect your health, ensuring that you, your colleagues, and even your pets are not exposed to potentially toxic emissions.
For those interested in the BOFA PrintPRO 3 and related bundles, including high-quality filaments and accessories, visit the Vision Miner website. The units are readily available and offer an additional layer of safety for your 3D printing projects.
If you have questions or would like more information, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment, like and subscribe to this video, and share it with others in the 3D printing community. Feel free to visit our website or reach out to our team for assistance. Your safety is our priority. Have a great day, and we look forward to seeing you in the next video!