Top 3 things you need in a 3D Printer Enclosure

A 3D printer enclosure is a very crucial component in 3D printing. It is the way to improve your prints and protect yourself from harmful fumes. So in terms of these 2 main criteria, what are the things you need in a 3d Printer enclosure?

Air Filtration

Absolutely number one on the list of important features to have in your 3D printer enclosure is filtration. FDM and Resin printing both produce varying levels of VOCs and Particulate Matter (see Are 3D Printer Fumes Dangerous for more info) which are all above air quality standards organizations and unhealthy to breathe in, especially inside a home. Make sure to use a high grade HEPA to filter particulate matter and a thick heavy layer of activated carbon (not just fabric, but actual carbon pellets) to clean up the VOCs. You can learn more about how the filtration works here: How 3D Printer Filtration Works. To achieve proper filtration we recommend using a recirculating filter so that you are constantly pumping dirty air through the filters, instead of just pushing them out to the environment. This is an example of a recirculating HEPA/Activated carbon filter: Heavy-Duty Recirculating Filtration or if you are handy, a DIY!

True HEPA (Left)/Activated Carbon Pellets (Right)

Temperature Control

Heating

ABS, Resin, Nylon, PETG… there are many more filaments that all need a warm environment, free of drafts (especially in the winter). Without proper wind protection and heat, your prints will suffer from curling or delaminating. Smart Heating

Thermostatic Heating

Cooling

Too warm of an environment can be detrimental too to filaments like PLA or flex filaments. If the temperature is too high the extruder drive gear will chew into the softened filament and jam, creating a mess of a failed print. Smart Cooling

Thermostatic cooling with filtration

Rigid Structure

With the number of things that are added to an enclosure like spool holders, electronic devices, and cameras, having a strong rigid structure is a must have. Materials like ACM or heat resistant plastics/acrylics are ideal for this. If you have curious kitties walking around the house, you’ll want to make sure they can walk on your enclosure too! Check out the beautiful Professor 3D printing enclosure with strong rigid walls, filtration and temperature control: The Professor

Rigid ACM paneling