Collaborative filtration solutions
” Designing a filtration system for 3D printers is a complex task, with numerous variables to consider, such as printing temperatures and particle size. Alveo3D helped us understand all the critical aspects of filtration systems. Together, we designed and produced a highly efficient solution specifically tailored for 3D printing. This system offers both excellent performance and safety, as confirmed by extensive testing.”
Dominik Sauer
Prusament filament testing
Air flow optimization
Test temperature
Advanced Filtration System
Customization of filters and fans
Timeline of the collaboration
2022
The collaboration between Prusa Research and Alveo3D began in February 2022, focusing on testing the effectiveness of our filters with Prusa filaments, the conception,etc.
2023
Following the successful tests in 2022, a significant increase in market demand for filters and fans. This marked an important phase in their partnership, highlighting the reliable and efficient Advance Filtration Systems.
2024
Our ongoing collaboration continues to grow, with new Original Prusa XL Enclosure projects in 2024 to further enhance 3D printing safety solutions.
2022-testing
— Conception
— Detailed Study Insights
We tested our filters with Prusament filaments
Phase 1: Initial Testing
- Began in February 2022, focusing on the efficiency of Alveo3D filters with Prusament filaments.
- Conducted tests with prototypes to identify a filtration system that meets Prusa’s specifications.
Phase 2: Customization and Optimization
- Customized filters and fans to optimize the airflow-to-noise ratio.
- Prusa designed the filter and fan support based on Alveo3D’s recommendations to enhance performance and longevity.
Phase 3: Testing on Prusa Mk3 Enclosure
- Aimed to determine the effectiveness of Prusa’s solutions in protecting its customers.
Filtering Efficiency Certificate
In March 2022, Prusa Development A.S. received a filtering efficiency certificate from Flexee System S.A.S. for their Prusament filaments, tested using the P3D filter for FDM 3D printers. Filtering efficiency from 7nm to 5000nm particle size with the P3D filter for. The highlights result in the following efficiencies:
- ASA Filament: 94.46%
- PC Filament: 94.96%
- PETG Filament: 95.20%
- PLA Filament: 96.98%
— Commercial cooperation
2023 Milestone Increased Orders of Filters and Fans
Additional Advantages of Alveo3D Filtration Systems
🟠 Protection
Thanks to its HEPA 13 filter made of cotton and activated carbon, it retains 99.95% of 300 nm particles.
🟠 Odor Reduction
Our HEPA filter is engineered to reduce emissions from 3D printers, offering dual protection against VOCs and UFPs.
🟠 Easy maintenance
The Advanced Filtration System is built for straightforward HEPA filter replacement, with a lifespan of at least 600 operational hours.
— MEASURE OF FILAMENT EMISSIONS
2024 Original Prusa XL Enclosure Study with Prusa Filament
Measurement requirements:
- XL measurement without Enclosure
- Filaments: PLA, ASA, and PCCF
- Focus: Measure emissions in an open environment.
- XL measurement with Enclosure
- Filaments: PLA, ASA, and PCCF
- Focus: Assess emissions with the enclosure in place.
- XL measurement with Enclosure and Filter Turned On
- Filaments: PLA, ASA, and PCCF
- Focus: Evaluate the effectiveness of the filtration system.
Conclusion:
- Overall Effectiveness
- The Original Prusa XL enclosure significantly reduces nanoparticle emissions for the highly emissive ASA and PCCF filaments.
- ASA Filament
- High nanoparticle concentration suggests an upgraded filter to maintain safe air quality.
- Fine adjustment of ventilation is needed to balance thermal requirements and air quality.
- PLA Filament
- The enclosure mitigates initial concentration peaks, but overall impact on air quality is minimal without the enclosure.
- Ventilation Considerations
- High ambient temperature required for ASA may demand reduced ventilation speed.
- Extended post-printing ventilation is essential to manage pollutant levels without causing air leaks.
✧ Trust – Professional – Patience ✧
Future collaboration Alveo3D’s opinion
Our first 3D printer was a Prusa MK3, which is still in use. So we knew Prusa Research for the quality of their equipment and the seriousness of the company.
When the Prusa Reserach teams wanted to develop an air filtration solution, we weren’t surprised that they focused on performance and safety for 3D printer operators. Very few manufacturers go to such lengths to offer a genuine safety solution integrated into their machines, with performance tests carried out in real-life conditions.
