The best way to deal with 3D printer fumes is to ventilate your 3D printer enclosure with an air filter, an air purifier, or a vent tube to a window. This will reduce the exposure to harmful ultrafine particles and volatile organic compounds that are emitted during the 3D printing process. In this article, you will learn why 3D printer fumes are dangerous, what types of fumes are produced by different 3D printing materials, and how to choose the best ventilation method for your 3D printer.
3D printer fumes are not just unpleasant to smell; they can also pose serious health risks. According to various studies, 3D printer fumes contain two main categories of pollutants: ultrafine particles (UFPs) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
UFPs are tiny physical particles that are smaller than 0.1 microns, which means they can easily penetrate the lungs and enter the bloodstream. UFPs can cause inflammation, irritation, and oxidative stress in the respiratory system, as well as cardiovascular and neurological problems.
VOCs are organic chemicals that have a high vapor pressure and can easily turn into gas or vapor. VOCs are responsible for the odor of 3D printer fumes, and they can also cause headaches, dizziness, nausea, and eye, nose, and throat irritation. Some VOCs, such as benzene, formaldehyde, and styrene, are also known or suspected carcinogens.
The level of exposure to 3D printer fumes depends on several factors, such as the type of 3D printing material, the print temperature, the print duration, the print speed, the nozzle size, the layer height, the infill percentage, the room size, the air circulation, and the personal sensitivity. However, it is always advisable to minimize the exposure as much as possible, especially for long-term or frequent 3D printing.
What Types of Fumes are Produced by Different 3D Printing Materials?
Not all 3D printing materials produce the same amount and type of fumes. Generally speaking, the higher the print temperature, the more fumes are generated. Therefore, materials that require higher print temperatures, such as ABS, nylon, PETG, and polycarbonate, tend to emit more fumes than materials that require lower print temperatures, such as PLA, TPU, and wood.
Moreover, different materials produce different VOCs, which have different health effects. For example, ABS emits styrene, which is a possible human carcinogen and can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation, as well as nervous system effects. PLA emits lactide, which is a biodegradable compound that has no significant health effects. PETG emits caprolactam, which can cause skin, eye, and respiratory tract irritation, as well as headaches and confusion.
Therefore, it is important to choose the right material for your 3D printing project, and to use the lowest possible print temperature that still ensures good print quality. You can also look for materials that are certified as low-emission, such as Eco-ABS, Eco-PLA, and Eco-PETG.
How to Choose the Best Ventilation Method for Your 3D Printer?
The most effective way to deal with 3D printer fumes is to ventilate your 3D printer enclosure. This means creating a closed space around your 3D printer and removing the fumes from the enclosure using an air filter, an air purifier, or a vent tube to a window. This will prevent the fumes from spreading into the room and reaching your breathing zone.
There are different types of ventilation methods that you can use for your 3D printer enclosure, depending on your budget, your space, and your preferences. Here are some of the most common ones:
Air filter: An air filter is a device that captures the fumes inside the enclosure and filters them through a layer of activated carbon, which absorbs the VOCs, and a layer of HEPA, which traps the UFPs. An air filter is usually attached to the back or the side of the enclosure, and it requires regular replacement of the filter cartridges. An air filter is a relatively cheap and easy solution, but it may not be very effective for high-emission materials or long print durations.
Air purifier: An air purifier is a device that draws the fumes from the enclosure and purifies them through a series of filters, such as pre-filter, activated carbon, HEPA, and UV light. An air purifier is usually placed outside the enclosure, and it requires a duct or a hose to connect it to the enclosure. An air purifier is a more expensive and complex solution, but it can provide a higher level of filtration and eliminate bacteria and viruses as well.
Vent tube: A vent tube is a simple and cheap solution that consists of a flexible hose that connects the enclosure to a window or an exhaust fan. A vent tube allows the fumes to exit the enclosure and the room, without any filtration. A vent tube is easy to install and does not require any maintenance, but it may not be suitable for cold or humid climates, as it can affect the temperature and the humidity inside the enclosure and the room.
3D printer fumes are not something to ignore, as they can have negative impacts on your health and the environment. The best way to deal with 3D printer fumes is to ventilate your 3D printer enclosure with an air filter, an air purifier, or a vent tube to a window. This will reduce the exposure to harmful ultrafine particles and volatile organic compounds that are emitted during the 3D printing process. You should also choose the right 3D printing material for your project, and use the lowest possible print temperature that still ensures good print quality. By following these tips, you can enjoy 3D printing safely and responsibly.
