Hi, We use a Formlabs 3B+ in a R&D environment for packaging prototyping / jigs & rigs.
As with most large corporate R&D sites Health & Safety is important and I need to have an idea of the particle sizes created when sanding down 3D parts so I can make sure we have the right level of dust control / containment.
I know this can vary on materials ( I’ll use White V2.1, Grey V4.1 as examples) and the grade of sandpaper used ( lets assume up to 240 as it’s really just to sand off the support nubs).
I have repurposed a ‘Waysafe GP54’ enclosure which should be ideal and the filter is H14 standard (99.995% efficient for 3um, conforming to EN1822). Thsi means it can capture particles a lot smaller, with still a decent amount of efficiency.
- We are doing this occasionally (low frequency) so I think I should be fine but we need to provide a reasonable argument/ data to placate the HS&E manager.
Your insights would be most welcome!
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We use downdraft tables and regular sandpaper pen sanders dremels just depends on the job. We use masks on the really dusty builds but its kinda upto how protected do you want to be and
We have a wall mounted version of this for our Formlabs sanding area
Our pen sander
And my mask i use
I can give more detailed info feel free to ask
@RichRolls if you’re serious enough about safety, get a proper mask with filters. The one @MattRForerunner is using is NOT one I’d recommend because it doesn’t have any proper safety certifications (probably doesn’t do most of what it claims otherwise they would certify it).
My recommendation would be a mask from Sundstrom or something comparable from another company. The reason I recommend Sundstrom is that they have serviceable masks with lots of replacement parts and attachments.
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We arent sanding so much stuff that you need a full masked $3000 contraption i thinknif you are having that much you might need to look at your quality of print. Most of our sanding is just support material and the RZ mask is what I use because I’ve used it in other industries with great success. Now for cerakote i use a resperator its all about the job I am doing with the combination of the dust collector/downdraft table the mask is sufficient for my work flow.
Huh? I was able to pick up a SR100 Pro Pack Kit that comes with the respirator and a bunch of filters for $58. It’s gone up in price a little since I got mine, but here is a link.
Heck, you can even pick up a full face mask kit with filters etc. for ~$230
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We can use masks if needed. I know it’s best practice to consider engineering controls first and PPE below that. Thanks to you all for your replies and lots of details. The booth I have for the very little use should be sufficient , coupled with masks if needed. Parts are small & occasional and as you said also it’s really just to smooth off support residue.
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