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3D Media and Printer Review

This is a review of 3D printer media types and printers.  Please consult with EHS​ for additional information pertaining to 3D printers and Marker Space reviews.

​3D Printer Media Review
​​Printer Media ​​​Health and Safety Concerns
​PLA
  • ​Ultra fine particulate
  • Low toxicity
  • Some Odor
​ABS
  • ​Ultrafine particulate
  • Carcinogenic
  • Strong Odors
​Nylon
  • ​Ultrafine particulate
  • Strong Odors
​CPE
  • ​Irritations
  • Strong Odor
  • Potential aldehydes released with high temperatures
​PVA
  • ​Strong Odors
​Flex
  • ​Thermal decomposition may result in release of toxic airborne contaminates which can be irritating to eyes, skin and respiratory tract.
​T-glaseAKA: PEGTPolyethylene Terephthalate
  • ​Strong Odors
​WoodfillFibers of wood are in PLA
  • ​Ultrafine particualte
​CopperfillCopper Particulates in PLA
  • ​Health hazard potential with Copper
  • Waste Hazard due to the Cu
​BrassfillBrass Powder in PLA
  • ​Health Hazard potential
  • Waste Hazard potential

​3D Printer Review​

​Printer Manufacturer Printing Material Health and Safety Concerns
​Makerbot 5th Gen Replicator and Replicator Mini ​PLA
  • ​Ultra fine particulate
  • Low toxicity
  • Some Ordor
​TKI Kossel ​PLA
  • ​Ultra Fine Particulate
  • Low Toxicity
  • Some Odor
​Ultimaker 3 ​PLA, ABS, Nylon, CPE, PVA ​ PLA:
  • See Above
ABS:
  • Ultrafine particulate
  • Carcinogenic
  • Strong odors
Nylon, PVA:
  • Ultrafine particulate
  • Strong Odors
CPE:
  • Potential Aldehyde exposure/odor
​FlashForge Creator Pro ​ABS
  • ​Ultrafine particulate
  • Carcinogenic
  • Strong odors

Concerns:

  • Layout of room

    • Number of computers
    • Additional Printers?
    • Storage of materials
    • Storage of cleaning agents
  • Ventilation for odors
  • Supervised Space
    • Procedures for each printer
  • Material Change out
    • Procedure for cleaning and Changing out filaments
  • Restrictions on using multiple materials per printer

*To be reviewed and updated periodically based on printers reviewed on campus