Three Dimensional (3D) Printer Safety
Three dimensional printers are perceived as being no more hazardous than the familiar laser printer, unfortunately, this impression is inaccurate.
Three-dimensional (3D) printing is an additive process molding virtual objects or digital images into 3D shapes using layer-upon layer of metals, curable resins, ceramics, plastics, nanoparticles and other materials. 3D printers may also have a laser attachment for engraving the cast products can pose specific hazards. Studies have indicated that 3D printers are capable of generating potentially harmful concentrations of ultrafine particles and chemical vapors during the print process and processes following printing to treat the cast products.
Common Types of 3D Printers
- Fused deposition modeling (FDM) printers melt a thermoplastic filament and deposit molten plastic in layers until the 3D model is complete. Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) and polylactic acid (PLA) plastics are the most commonly used in this process. When heated during the print process, both media types produce large concentrations of ultrafine particles (UFP). Exposures to UFP, particularly at high concentrations, have been associated with adverse health effects. Depending on the filament material, elevated concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOC) can also be produced during the printing process.
- Multi-jet modeling (MJM), also called multi-jet printing (MJP), is a printing process that deposits UV photo-curable plastic resin or casting wax layer-by-layer.
- Selective laser sintering (SLS) is a type of stereo lithography where powdered metals are sintered (fused) together using lasers to form a solid structure. Some powdered metal printers use an adhesive rather than laser sintering to bond the metal powder.
- Stereo lithography (SLA) employs a laser or ultraviolet (UV) light to cure photopolymer resins (usually thermoplastics) layer-by-layer into a prototype form built on a support that must be manually or chemically removed. Rapid prototyping SLA printers do not require a support allowing faster builds to occur.
Purchasing 3D Printers
Only printers certified to the ANSI/CAN/UL 2904 Standard may be purchased. This standard test certifies printers for low emission rates.
Prior to purchasing a 3D printer, complete a Space Planning Request and get approval from the committee.
Training Prior to Use
Faculty and Staff working with 3D printers must be trained in either Longwood University’s Hazard Communications Program or Chemical Hygiene Plan, and the University’s Hazardous Waste Plan.
For more information see Longwood University’s 3D Printer Safety Program. This program outlines the common types of 3D printers used at Longwood University, associated risks, recommended health and safety practices, and proper disposal methods of hazardous materials.