The short answer is yes, 3D printers should be run with ventilation running to reduce the exposure to harmful fumes and particles. However, the long answer is more complicated and depends on several factors, such as the type of 3D printing technology, the material used, the size and location of the printing area, and the duration and frequency of printing. In this article, we will explore why ventilation is important for 3D printing, how to measure and improve the air quality around your 3D printer, and what are the best ventilation solutions for different scenarios.
3D printing is a process that involves melting or curing various materials, such as plastic, resin, metal, or ceramic, to create solid objects layer by layer. While this technology offers many benefits and possibilities, it also comes with some health and safety risks. One of the main risks is the emission of fumes and particles that can affect the air quality and pose a threat to the respiratory system and other organs.
The fumes and particles that 3D printers emit fall into two categories: volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and ultrafine particles (UFPs).
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
VOCs are organic chemicals that have a high vapor pressure and can easily evaporate into the air. They are responsible for the smell that 3D printers produce and can cause irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat, as well as headaches, dizziness, and nausea. Some VOCs, such as benzene, formaldehyde, and acrolein, are also known to be carcinogenic or toxic.
The amount and type of VOCs that 3D printers emit depend on the material and the temperature used. For example, FDM 3D printers, which use thermoplastic filaments, tend to emit more VOCs than resin 3D printers, which use liquid photopolymers. Among the common filaments, ABS, which requires higher printing temperatures, releases more VOCs than PLA, which is derived from renewable sources.
Ultrafine Particles (UFPs)
UFPs are tiny solid particles that are smaller than 0.1 microns in diameter. They are generated when the material is heated or cured and can remain suspended in the air for a long time. UFPs can penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream, causing inflammation, oxidative stress, and damage to the cells and tissues. UFPs can also carry toxic substances, such as heavy metals, that can affect the brain, heart, and other organs.
The amount and size of UFPs that 3D printers emit also depend on the material and the temperature used. FDM 3D printers generally produce more UFPs than resin 3D printers, and ABS filaments generate more UFPs than PLA filaments. However, resin 3D printers can also produce UFPs when the resin is cured by UV light, and some resins may contain harmful chemicals, such as styrene.
How to Measure and Improve the Air Quality Around Your 3D Printer
To ensure that you are not exposed to harmful levels of fumes and particles from your 3D printer, you need to measure and improve the air quality around your printing area. There are several ways to do this, such as using air quality monitors, air purifiers, and personal protective equipment.
Air Quality Monitors
Air quality monitors are devices that can measure the concentration of various pollutants in the air, such as VOCs, UFPs, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, ozone, and particulate matter. They can help you assess the level of risk and take appropriate actions to reduce it. Some air quality monitors can also connect to your smartphone or computer and provide real-time data and alerts.
There are many air quality monitors available on the market, with different features and prices. Some of the factors to consider when choosing an air quality monitor are:
The type and number of pollutants that it can detect
The accuracy and reliability of the measurements
The ease of use and installation
The battery life and power source
The display and interface
The connectivity and compatibility with other devices
The warranty and customer service
One example of an air quality monitor that is suitable for 3D printing is the Awair Element, which can measure VOCs, UFPs, carbon dioxide, temperature, and humidity. It has a sleek design, a color-coded LED display, and a companion app that provides insights and recommendations. It can also integrate with other smart devices, such as Alexa, Google Assistant, and Nest.
Air Purifiers
Air purifiers are devices that can filter the air and remove pollutants, such as VOCs, UFPs, dust, pollen, and smoke. They can help you improve the air quality and reduce the health risks from 3D printing. Some air purifiers can also deodorize the air and eliminate the smell from 3D printing.
There are many types of air purifiers, with different technologies and mechanisms, such as:
Mechanical filters, such as HEPA filters, that trap particles by physical means
Activated carbon filters, that adsorb VOCs and odors by chemical means
Ionizers, that charge particles and make them stick to surfaces or each other
UV lamps, that kill bacteria and viruses by radiation
Ozone generators, that oxidize pollutants by chemical means
Some of the factors to consider when choosing an air purifier are:
The type and size of the filter and the frequency of replacement
The coverage area and the air exchange rate
The noise level and the energy consumption
The design and the portability
The features and the settings
The certification and the performance
One example of an air purifier that is suitable for 3D printing is the Blueair Blue Pure 211+, which has a three-stage filtration system that includes a pre-filter, a particle filter, and an activated carbon filter. It can capture 99.97% of particles as small as 0.1 microns and reduce VOCs and odors. It has a large coverage area, a high air exchange rate, and a low noise level. It also has a simple design, a color-customizable fabric, and a one-button control.
Personal Protective Equipment
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is the last line of defense against the fumes and particles from 3D printing. It includes items such as masks, respirators, goggles, gloves, and aprons that can protect your eyes, nose, mouth, skin, and clothes from exposure. PPE is especially important when you are handling the material or the printed object, as they may still release pollutants or cause irritation.
There are many types of PPE, with different levels of protection and comfort, such as:
Disposable masks, that cover the nose and mouth and block large particles
Reusable masks, that cover the nose and mouth and have replaceable filters
Respirators, that cover the nose and mouth and have a tight seal and a valve
Goggles, that cover the eyes and prevent dust and splashes
Gloves, that cover the hands and prevent contact and burns
Aprons, that cover the body and prevent stains and spills
Some of the factors to consider when choosing PPE are:
The type and level of protection that you need
The fit and the comfort that you prefer
The durability and the maintenance that you can afford
The availability and the accessibility that you can find
One example of PPE that is suitable for 3D printing is the 3M Half Facepiece Reusable Respirator 6200, which has a soft and flexible facepiece that conforms to your face and a bayonet connection system that allows you to attach various filters and cartridges. It can protect you from VOCs, UFPs, and other gases and vapors. It also has an exhalation valve that reduces heat and moisture buildup and an adjustable head harness that ensures a secure fit.
What Are the Best Ventilation Solutions for Different Scenarios
The best ventilation solution for your 3D printer depends on your specific situation and needs. However, here are some general guidelines and recommendations for different scenarios:
If you are 3D printing occasionally and for short periods, using a well-ventilated room, such as a garage or a workshop, may be sufficient. You should also use a low-emission material, such as PLA, and wear a mask or a respirator when handling the material or the printed object.
If you are 3D printing frequently and for long periods, using an enclosed and ventilated chamber, such as a cabinet or a box, is advisable. You should also use a high-efficiency filter, such as a HEPA filter, and an air purifier to remove the fumes and particles from the chamber. You should also wear goggles, gloves, and an apron when opening the chamber or handling the material or the printed object.
If you are 3D printing professionally and for commercial purposes, using a dedicated and isolated room, such as a lab or a studio, is essential. You should also use a professional-grade filter, such as an EPA filter, and a ventilation system to exhaust the fumes and particles to the outside. You should also wear a full-face respirator, goggles, gloves, and an apron when entering the room or handling the material or the printed object.
Conclusion
3D printing is a wonderful technology that can create amazing objects and unleash your creativity. However, it also comes with some health and safety risks that you should not ignore. To protect yourself and others from the harmful fumes and particles that 3D printers emit, you should always run your 3D printer with ventilation running and use other measures to improve the air quality around your printing area. You should also choose the appropriate material, filter, and ventilation solution for your specific scenario and needs. By following these tips, you can enjoy 3D printing without compromising your well-being.
