The Amazing Technology Behind 3D Printed PPE

Hey everyone! Welcome back to the official Just STEM Stuff Blog. As described on my YouTube video, I will be expanding on some of the background knowledge behind 3D Printing as well as the Q&A!

I hope you gather some more knowledge about the world of 3-D Printing!

What is 3-D Printing?

3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is a process where a 3D printer creates three-dimensional objects by adding materials layer upon layer to create your designated model or shape.

Click HERE for a great resource by All3DP to help you understanding 3D Printing more

Click HERE for an awesome video by Mashable for a visual experience


What can 3D printing be used for today and in the future?


Some of the applications are:

  • Printing accessories such as smartphone cases and stands, cable holders, boxes, etc.
  • Printing replacement parts for household devices, electrical devices, computers, cameras, even bikes, and more.
  • Printing toys and tools of all sorts.
  • Print fabrics for creating clothes or even shoes.
  • Producing equipment in space.
  • Bioprinting (e.g. prosthetics and even artificial organs).
  • Printing house parts.

Click HERE to access some great applications of 3D Printing in the real world


How do you 3D print objects?


Printing a three-dimensional model is more complicated than opening up Microsoft Word and printing to your 2D printer. At a high level, to create a 3D model you follow these steps:

  • Find a model or create a model with a certain software
  • Prepare your model for printing, for example, ensuring the model is watertight with no gaps.
  • Create an STL file that converts your model into code the 3D printer understands.
  • Print your 3D model, adjusting the printer as needed.

Click HERE for a basic and understandable 3D Printing guide for first-timers

Click HERE for some tips and tricks for 3D modeling.


What are some of the FDA Guidelines for 3D Printing PPE?

Many of the guidelines that the FDA posted for 3D Printing PPE can be found HERE. They outline some great considerations especially overviewing the fact and understanding that 3D Printing PPE may not be as effective as purchasing one that is already fabricated with the correct safety guidelines.

Nonetheless, the FDA has taken steps so that active printers know what they can wear and cannot wear.


What should I and other health care workers do if using a 3D-printed mask?

  • Check the 3D-printed mask's seal for leaks.
  • Confirm that they can breathe through any makeshift filter materials.
  • Exercise caution in surgical environments where the need for liquid barrier protection and flammability is a concern.
  • Recognize that the mask may not provide air filtration enough to prevent transmission of infectious agents.
  • Safely dispose of infectious materials and disinfect any part they intend to reuse.

To see more of these FDA Guidelines in-depth, please check out the FDA's Q&A HERE.


How can I help out?

Here are some great organizations that you can be involved in to help out with printing PPE. As a note, make sure to take a look at their requirements. 


I hope this added to some of your background knowledge about 3D Printing and I'm so grateful for your support towards COVID-19. Thank you for watching "Just STEM Stuff" and reading these blogs. I will see you next month!







Signing off, 


GR








 




Comments

  1. UnknownDecember 15, 2020 at 2:02 PM

    This was very informative. Thank you.

    ReplyDelete
  2. AnonymousSeptember 20, 2022 at 1:05 AM

    The subsequent step is to tune in your press settings to finish your sublimated item after you’ve sorted out your inkjet settings. Time, temperature, and pressure are the most important factors for pressing or baking an item. It’s the combination of those three parameters that allow you to get bright graphics on your substrate.

    Heat Press Time and Temperature Instructions

    ReplyDelete

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