FAQs for holders of 3D printers other than MultiJet Fusion:
- What types of printers can be used for 3D printing of the CIIRC RP95 prototype of safety half-mask?
We are developing the prototype for advanced 3D printing technology – MJF. It is possible to use the HP Multijet Fusion 540, more suitable are the 4200 and 5200, which have a higher production capacity. We are printing from PA-12 material. At this stage of development we have excluded home printers because they cannot meet these parameters, the same as SLS printers. FDM has been excluded too.
- Why just the above listed printers? What is their specification
The chosen technology guarantees optimal properties such as flexibility, light weight or impermeability as well as biocompatibility. At this stage of prototyping and attestation, we have excluded home printers that do not meet these parameters. Please note that CIIRC RP95-3D prototype is not ready for the SLS technology.
- Will the 3D printing community have the access to the CIIRC RP95-3D data?
In some extent – the data will be shared only with MJF holders. Data will be provided upon the registration through the web portal, where the owner of the device also enters its serial number.
If an organization interested in data believes it has the technology similar to MJF or can achieve the necessary print quality, the case will be assessed individually upon the submission of the particular 3D technology specification by such an aplicant. However, FDM technology is completely excluded at this time.
- What is the difference between MJF and the printer we have most often at home?
Unlike the MJF technology, the most widely used printing technology is the FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling). FDM printing creates matter in the form of a microscopic grid. This method is critical for an effective respirator, as there is a risk that air may pass through the grid without filtration at some points during breathing. It does not guarantee 100% virus protection.
We tried to experiment with a final surface etching treatment that would seal these microscopic holes, but no subsequent treatment satisfactorily ensured absolute material impermeability. In contrast, MJF printing does not create a grid. The resulting mask is perfectly compact and completely impermeable even at the microscopic level.
- Is it possible to use the widely spread models from the Czech company Prusa Research?
We have been in touch with Prusa Research. Of course, we were also thinking about the possibility of using the widely used FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) technology, but we are afraid that the material and manufacturing processes used will not guarantee the necessary throughput parameters. However, we do not rule out that we will not deal with this method of production in the next phase.