3D printing network produces headbands and face-shields

Using Prusa 3D printing machines from sources including the Telford Innovation Campus, staff from the University’s School of Engineering have collaborated to perfect a fast and stream-lined manufacturing process for RC3 headbands using Polyethylene terephthalate glycol modified (PETG). As a part of the social distancing policy, some staff are printing headbands from home, using University equipment or personal 3D printers.

MORE ON THE ENGINEERING RESPONSE TO COVID-19 HERE

When the headbands are printed, a transparent plastic visor, cut to shape using the School of Engineering’s Zund cutting table, is added to the front, creating a protective face shielding barrier.

In a statement, Dr Syed Hasan, head of the School of Engineering at the University, said: “Engineers have been discussing and collaborating on how to combat the COVID-19 pandemic even before we began social distancing.

“Finding ways to quickly manufacture PPE using the…technology we have available is very important, but the job is only half done. We need to produce thousands more masks in the coming weeks to help those who need it.”