Are Nylon Filament Fumes Harmful?

What are nylon filament fumes?

Nylon is most commonly used in industrial 3D printing, usually associated with plastics, though it can also be found in fabrics and fibres. Nylon has a high heat resistance, melting above 240 °C. Compared to ABS filament, nylon filament is a high-performance thermoplastic that is stronger, more durable and has greater wear resistance – making it a versatile 3D printing filament that is ideal for high-strength uses.

Industries that use nylon

Nylon is a versatile material, used for a variety of applications across various industries. These include:

• Additive manufacturing
• Aerospace
• Medical
• Agriculture
• Marine
• Automotive

Are nylon filament fumes harmful?

Nylon filament emits toxic fumes and gases, that can be harmful if the 3D printer does not have an air filtration unit. In the 3D printing process, the melting of plastic releases ‘caprolactam’, which can cause adverse reactions if not used correctly.

The dangers of nylon filament fumes

Some of the health risks associated with nylon filament fumes, include but aren’t limited to:

• Respiratory problems
• Nose, eyes and throat irritation
• Irritation to the skin
• Headaches
• Dizziness

How can a Purex fume extractor help?

When using nylon during 3D printing, the process can often take several hours. Exposure to toxic fumes emitted from nylon are more likely to occur when workers print for a long periods of time in a small area. However, there are several ways to mitigate the risk of nylon printing fumes with correct ventilation and the use of a fume extraction system.

The Purex Cub3d has been specially designed for 3D printing. The adjustable speed and adaptable hood ensure the safe extraction of hazardous particles, whilst maintaining the air inside the printer to guarantee a quality print – helping to keep operators and those around the printer safe.