The best way to make your 3D printer safe is to follow some basic safety rules, such as keeping it in a well-ventilated area, wearing protective equipment, and avoiding contact with hot or moving parts.
3D printing is a fascinating technology that allows you to create almost anything you can imagine. However, it also comes with some potential hazards that you should be aware of and prevent. In this article, we will discuss some of the most common health and safety risks associated with 3D printing, and how you can avoid them.
One of the main dangers of 3D printing is the risk of getting burned by the hot parts of the printer, such as the nozzle, the heated bed, or the extruded filament. These parts can reach temperatures of over 200°C (392°F), which can cause severe injuries if touched. To prevent this, you should:
Keep your 3D printer in a safe and isolated place, away from children, pets, and flammable materials.
Wear gloves when handling your 3D printer, especially when changing the filament, cleaning the nozzle, or removing the print.
Wait for the printer to cool down completely before touching any of the hot parts.
Use a scraper or tweezers to remove the print from the bed, and be careful not to cut yourself with the sharp edges.
Pinch Point Injuries
Another risk of 3D printing is getting pinched by the moving parts of the printer, such as the belts, gears, or rods. These parts can move at high speeds and with great force, which can cause bruises, cuts, or even fractures if caught between them. To prevent this, you should:
Never put your fingers or any other body part near the moving parts of the printer while it is operating.
Never try to adjust or fix the printer while it is running. Always turn it off and unplug it first.
Use a guard or a cover to protect the moving parts from accidental contact.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations for maintenance and calibration of the printer.
Another hazard of 3D printing is the possibility of getting an electric shock from the printer or its power supply. This can happen if the printer is faulty, damaged, or improperly wired. An electric shock can cause burns, muscle spasms, cardiac arrest, or even death. To prevent this, you should:
Only use a 3D printer that has been tested and certified by a reputable organization, such as UL, CE, or FCC.
Only use a power supply that is compatible with the printer and the voltage of your outlet.
Inspect the printer and the power cord regularly for any signs of wear, tear, or damage. Do not use the printer if you notice any cracks, exposed wires, or loose connections.
Keep the printer away from water, moisture, or any other conductive materials.
Do not attempt to modify or repair the printer yourself, unless you are qualified and experienced. Contact the manufacturer or a professional service provider if you encounter any problems.
Fire Risks
Another danger of 3D printing is the risk of fire, which can be caused by various factors, such as overheating, short circuits, sparks, or flammable materials. A fire can damage the printer, the print, and the surrounding environment, as well as cause injuries or fatalities. To prevent this, you should:
Use a smoke detector and a fire extinguisher near the printer, and know how to use them in case of emergency.
Do not leave the printer unattended while it is printing, especially for long or complex prints. Monitor the printer regularly and check for any signs of overheating, smoke, or flames.
Use a thermal runaway protection feature, if available, which can detect and stop the printer if the temperature exceeds a certain limit.
Use a quality filament that is suitable for your printer and your print settings. Avoid using cheap or unknown filaments that may contain impurities, additives, or contaminants that can increase the risk of fire.
Keep the printer clean and free of dust, debris, or any other flammable materials that can ignite or fuel a fire.
Another issue of 3D printing is the exposure to fumes, which are emitted by the heated filament during the printing process. These fumes can contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), ultrafine particles (UFPs), or other harmful substances, depending on the type of filament used. These fumes can irritate the eyes, nose, throat, or lungs, and may cause headaches, nausea, dizziness, or allergic reactions. In some cases, they may also have long-term effects, such as cancer, respiratory diseases, or neurological disorders. To prevent this, you should:
Keep your 3D printer in a well-ventilated area, preferably with an exhaust fan or a filter system that can remove the fumes from the air.
Wear a respirator or a mask that can protect you from inhaling the fumes, especially if you are printing with materials that are known to be more toxic, such as ABS, nylon, or resin.
Choose a filament that is less harmful or more eco-friendly, such as PLA, PETG, or biodegradable materials.
Print at the lowest possible temperature and speed that can produce a good quality print, as higher temperatures and speeds can increase the amount of fumes generated.
Conclusion
3D printing is a wonderful technology that can unleash your creativity and innovation. However, it also comes with some potential risks that you should be aware of and prevent. By following some basic safety rules, such as keeping your 3D printer in a well-ventilated area, wearing protective equipment, and avoiding contact with hot or moving parts, you can enjoy 3D printing safely and responsibly. Remember, safety is your responsibility, so always read the manual, follow the instructions, and use common sense when working with your 3D printer. Happy printing!
