The coronavirus, dubbed as COVID-19, has caused a monumental healthcare emergency worldwide. As the numbers of cases rise exponentially every minute, we’re seeing a massive shortage of medical equipment and necessary gear required to keep the doctors, nurses, and individuals, involved in the healthcare industry safe.

The disrupted manufacturing and supply chain of hospitals spiked the demand for protective gear as hospitals, and medical centers started running out of them. The good news is that several companies and businesses across the world, specifically in the US, have stepped up and taken multiple initiatives to help produce the required protective equipment by putting in the time, effort, and resources to fill this gap. Various university labs, startups, multinationals, and college campuses specifically involved in the 3D-printing industry have risen to play an active part by building necessary equipment required for the protection of healthcare professionals.

The sudden spike in demand for personal protective equipment (PPE)—including but not limited to face shields, masks, helmets, and goggles—and medical equipment such as ventilators and respirators requires a proactive production approach that 3D printing can efficiently tackle.

Let’s take a quick look at the primary material involved in 3D printing of face shields and how this printed equipment is playing an integral part in helping fighting COVID-19.

PETG Filament

PETG is a transparent type of Copolyester and stands for polyethylene terephthalate glycol-modified. It is one of the most durable and high strength filaments and is perfect for use in mechanical as well as electrical parts used in high-end equipment.

The malleable nature of PETG makes it ideal for use in the design and production of medical masks and covering equipment necessary to prevent the transfer of droplets from infected patients to caregivers.

The filament also has resistant properties to acidic and alkaline materials, as well as water. It offers a perfect transparent look, which is why it’s excellent for building medical-grade face shields, helmets, and protective goggles. 

Coronavirus, Technology and 3D Printing

The coronavirus pandemic has seen 3D manufacturing emerge as an essential tool in fighting the crisis, opening up opportunities for local manufacturing companies to address the equipment shortage in hospitals and quarantine centers.

Masks and face shields are crucial to ensure the safety of those at the frontlines as they’re at an incredibly high risk of catching the infection due to direct exposure. 3D printed face shields offer an added protection, worn in combination with the N95 masks they can help protect medical care providers. Companies and individuals are now working collectively to help safeguard healthcare workers fighting on the frontlines of the coronavirus pandemic. While researchers and scientists are continually working on developing a vaccine, we’re in the dark at the moment and may not have a fully effective treatment for at least 18 months from now.

Till then, the best way to deal with this is by following the guidelines issued by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) for both medical caregivers and ordinary citizens. 

Face masks may not be an ironclad treatment. Still, the ones developed with high-end filaments and advanced technology certainly reduce the risk of transmission, and their increased production is precisely the need of the hour.

How is FilaMatrix Playing Their Part?

Our company specializes in 3D printer filaments, especially PETG filaments, that are known for their sturdy and flexible properties. With the matrix chooser, you can now choose a 3D filament that best suits your needs and matches the required properties for producing masks and face shields.

We’ve also introduced a comparison system where you can quickly learn the difference between different filaments and their properties and find their specific numerical values.

Over the years, we’ve worked with businesses that require 3D printing across various industries, including the medical industry. If you’re new to the printing business and having trouble picking the right filaments, talk to the experts at FilaMatrix to learn more.

We’re also giving an exclusive 40% Off 10lb Clear PETG and 10lb Black PLA Filaments for businesses and organizations involved in the medical equipment business. If you’re printing protective gear and essential equipment anywhere in the United States, use our code “FIGHTCOVID” when placing an order.

If you have further queries about the shipping and handling details, you can get in touch with us through this online form or give us a call at 1-844-810-1385. We’re always here to accommodate our clients and customers; however, we can.