The short answer is no, it is not safe to be in the same room as a vented FDM 3D printer. FDM 3D printers emit ultrafine particles (UFPs) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can harm your health and the environment. Venting your 3D printer can reduce the exposure to these pollutants, but it does not eliminate them completely. Therefore, it is advisable to use proper ventilation, filtration, and personal protective equipment when operating a FDM 3D printer.
UFPs and VOCs are two types of pollutants that are released by FDM 3D printers. UFPs are tiny solid particles that are smaller than 0.1 microns in diameter. They are formed when the filament material is melted and extruded by the hot end of the printer. UFPs can easily enter the lungs and the bloodstream, causing inflammation, irritation, and potentially chronic diseases such as asthma, COPD, or cancer.
VOCs are organic chemicals that have a high vapor pressure and can evaporate into the air. They are emitted when the filament material is heated and degraded by the printer. VOCs can have a strong odor and can cause headaches, dizziness, and eye, nose, and throat irritation. Some VOCs, such as benzene, acrolein, and formaldehyde, are also known to be carcinogenic.
The amount and type of UFPs and VOCs vary depending on the 3D printing technology, the filament material, the print temperature, the print speed, and the print duration. Generally, FDM 3D printers produce more UFPs and VOCs than resin 3D printers. Among the common filament materials, ABS emits more UFPs and VOCs than PLA, mainly because ABS requires higher print temperatures.
Venting your FDM 3D printer means providing a way for the polluted air to escape from the printing area. This can reduce the concentration of UFPs and VOCs in the room and lower the health risks. However, venting alone is not enough to ensure a safe 3D printing environment. You also need to consider the following factors:
The location of the vent: The vent should be placed as close as possible to the printer, preferably on the top or the back of the printer enclosure. This can prevent the pollutants from spreading to other areas of the room. The vent should also be connected to an exhaust fan or a duct that leads to the outside. This can prevent the pollutants from recirculating in the room or the building.
The size of the vent: The vent should be large enough to allow sufficient airflow and pressure to remove the pollutants. The vent should also be adjustable to control the amount of air that is vented. This can prevent over-venting or under-venting, which can affect the print quality and the energy efficiency.
The type of the vent: The vent should be designed to minimize noise and vibration, which can disturb the printer and the user. The vent should also be easy to install, maintain, and clean. The vent should also be compatible with the printer enclosure and the filament material.
What are the alternatives to venting your FDM 3D printer?
Venting your FDM 3D printer is not the only way to reduce the exposure to UFPs and VOCs. You can also use the following methods to improve the air quality and the safety of your 3D printing environment:
Use a filter: A filter can capture and remove the UFPs and VOCs from the air before they reach the vent. The filter should be placed inside the printer enclosure or between the printer and the vent. The filter should be compatible with the printer and the filament material. The filter should also be replaced or cleaned regularly to maintain its effectiveness. There are different types of filters available, such as HEPA filters, activated carbon filters, or custom-made filters.
Use an air purifier: An air purifier can clean the air in the room by removing the UFPs and VOCs. The air purifier should be placed near the printer or in the center of the room. The air purifier should have a high CADR (clean air delivery rate) and a low noise level. The air purifier should also have a filter that can trap the UFPs and VOCs. The filter should be replaced or cleaned regularly to maintain its effectiveness.
Use personal protective equipment: Personal protective equipment (PPE) can protect the user from inhaling or touching the UFPs and VOCs. The PPE should include a respirator, gloves, goggles, and a lab coat. The respirator should have a N95 or higher rating and fit snugly on the face. The gloves should be made of nitrile or latex and cover the wrists. The goggles should have a tight seal and prevent fogging. The lab coat should be made of cotton or polyester and cover the arms and the torso.
FDM 3D printers are not safe to be in the same room with, even if they are vented. Venting can reduce the exposure to UFPs and VOCs, but it does not eliminate them completely. Therefore, it is advisable to use proper ventilation, filtration, and personal protective equipment when operating a FDM 3D printer. This can ensure a safe and healthy 3D printing experience for the user and the environment.
