Advanced Filtration System with ABS  

RE: Advanced Filtration System with ABS

Hello Shane. 

I've got the Enclosure + air filter, and I've also got a $300 air quality monitor right next to the printer (not saying more $ = better but hopefully it's at least a little true). What I'm specifically measuring is VOC and PM2.5. 

First things first: There is a difference in "pollution" depending on which type of filament, even within the same material family. My guess (and other research articles' guesses) is that it's due to different additives. In other words, PLA ≠ PLA in terms of air pollution. I haven't done any testing rigorous enough to give you any numbers though, but my layman's rule of thumb is "more simple = less pollution" (i.e. a simple white PLA emits less than a fancy pearl silk glitter PLA).

I print mostly in PLA, some in PETG, and only a small amount in ASA. In my understanding though according to Prusa, ASA is just a better version of ABS, thus there's no real reason to print in ABS. 

To actually answer your question: When I'm printing with the enclosure closed and air filter on, I've only noticed a negligible increase in air pollutants in the room. If I crack open a window, the increase in air pollutants is barely noticeable or not noticeable at all. That being said I haven't printed in ABS, and only a little in ASA, but I in general feel comfortable with enclosure + filter + cracked window. 

PS: There are many design choices of the Prusa Enclosure I do not agree with, but if you plan on getting one I would highly recommend getting the PSU cable quick release, despite it being ridiculously overpriced. 

RE: Advanced Filtration System with ABS

Thanks for your reply. I did order the enclosure last week. I got the LED, the advanced filtration system, and the quick release. I’m not very familiar with the properties of all these materials. At least not as much as so should be. The reason I mentioned ABS is. Because that is what is used in building a Voron. I want a larger format printer and want to learn how these machines work so I thought that building one would be the best learning opportunity. 

I am just trying my best to remain as safe as possible because when I am in my office where my printer is, it is guaranteed that my dog will be laying back there with me and quite frequently, my oldest kid will walk in and see what I am doing. Trying to keep pollutants to a minimum. i will likely add some other method of air purifier or something but part of my research is asking the community here. Getting insight from those that have more experience with these more advanced materials.

Thanks again for the information you have provided!