3D printing offers many learning opportunities in schools. A 3D printer can help to boost engagement, improve information retention and enhance student performance. Educators across the country are incorporating technology in classrooms to enhance learning with great results.
3D printers offer many benefits in learning environments. However, the 3D printing process can result in the exposure of your students to toxic fumes. These include particulates and volatile organic particles. It is important for educators to take precautions to ensure their safety as well as that of their students. The following are some steps you can take to improve air quality while 3D printing in the classroom.
- Print in a well-ventilated room
This is the easiest way to reduce exposure to air pollutants is by simply working in a well-ventilated room. You can achieve this by opening the windows of the classroom or lab. This will allow for the circulation of air in the room. You can improve circulation even further by using a fan to move air in the room and ensure faster circulation.
- Use an enclosure
You can improve air quality while 3D printing by containing pollutants. This is made possible by using a 3D printer enclosure. Enclosures such as that from Snapmaker are designed to keep the VOCs and particulates contained. These enclosures fit over the printer. The fumes that are produced during the printing session are kept within the enclosure. You can set it up so that the polluted air is exhausted outdoors.
- Use an air purifier
You can hook up an air filter to your printer enclosure to keep air pollutants completely contained and protect your health as well as that of your students while 3D printing. Search for the best rated air purifier that features a HEPA filter and carbon filter. These will ensure that both particulates and VOCs are trapped and therefore not dispersed in the air. Having an air purifier as part of your setup is one of the surest ways to ensure safety during the printing process.
Search the Snapmaker website for the best affordable air purifier. Snapmaker's air filter is not only affordable but also offers the best results. Its light and compact design make it the perfect choice for a classroom environment.
- Choose the safest filaments
3D printing filaments are made from a wide range of materials. These materials produce different compounds when heated. It is important to understand the characteristics of the different filaments and choose which would be safest for use in a classroom environment. PolyLactic Acid (PLA) filament is one of the safest filaments to use for 3D printing. It is derived from corn starch and emits the least amount of VOCs compared to other types of 3D printing filaments. You may also want to consider Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) filament. This is a filament that is made from petroleum-based material.
Use the tips above to enhance learning while maintaining a safe learning environment.