All 3D printing results in gaseous emissions, which generally smell pretty bad.
This doesnt mean that youre going to have medical issues if you ever happen to smell them.
Continued exposure to these toxic chemicals, however, can result in medical issues or exacerbate current issues.
Adequate ventilation can really improve the air quality and protect your health. Image source:nederman.com
There are two primary problematic emissions, Volatile Organic Compounds aka VOCs and ultrafine particles.
Both of these are bad for you in their own right.
This is especially an issue when dealing with other fine particles such as carbon-fiber-infused filaments.
These can also enter the lungs.
Once these particles are in the lungs, its tough for the body to get rid of them.
They often irritate the lungs and can exacerbate medical conditions such as asthma.
Filaments that need to be printed at higher temperatures also tend to be worse for your health.
Higher temperatures result in more off-gassing.
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Ventilation and Filtering
Thankfully, it is possible to protect yourself from toxic emissions.
Unfortunately, doing so can be an annoying process that costs money.
The best thing you’re free to do is ensure that your printer is in a well-ventilated area.
While you could run this straight outside, its a good idea to filter the air.
Carbon and HEPA filters effectively trapping and removing VOCs and ultrafine particles from the air, respectively.
Ideally, you should use both types of filters in your ventilation system.
Adequate ventilation can really improve the air quality and protect your health.
Administrative controls can also be helpful.
PPE
Finally, properly filtered masks can also be helpful.
Many people prefer to avoid PPE (Personal Protective Equipment).
It can be difficult to get a mask that perfectly fits you, and theyre generally not very comfortable.
It can be easy enough to forget to put PPE on too.
If you dont, then the PPE wont provide you with the protection youre relying on.
Conclusion
While 3D printing is a great hobby, you should be careful to protect your health.
Whats your ventilation solution for your printing area?
Let us know how you keep safe, down below.
