JPL designed and tested 3D printed respirators to help with the COVID-19 pandemic response. The designs and instructions for three different types of respirators, custom filters, and the resulting detailed test data is published here. These designs were tested according to many criteria, including fit checks, breathability, comfort, etc, and the test results are available. This upload is for one of the three respirator designs, the Performance Respirator, but check other JPL NIH postings or GitHub to view the other two designs. Note that these respirators are not certified by NIOSH or any medical institution, so use at your own risk.
These designs, instructions, STL files, and JPL's initial test data are released to Open Source with the hope that companies and individuals who have access to 3D printers, and who want to help, can print or create these for those who need them. We are purposefully not using materials in the normal medical supply chain as it should be kept free to create commercial and certified respirators. We expect and hope that these designs will be commented on and improved by everyone during and after this pandemic.
Comfort Respirator Description:
Designed to meet a high comfort factor for extended time use and safe fit seal the JPL Comfort 3D printable respirator can be manufactured and assembled with little expertise and with most typical consumer 3D printers. Modular design allows for intended use adaptability such as single or double cartridge filters for low to high physical activity and support accessories such as a one-way exhaust valve.
This design series can be printed with a rigid or flexible filament.
- Rigid material PLA and PETG
- Flexible material Shore 95A TPU (Ninjatek Cheetah tested)
These are all fairly common and easily printable filaments with most 3D printers. All assembly parts can be made of either but there are advantages for choosing the most recommended filament for each when possible. Any additional fabrication materials are easily found at local hardware or hobby shops.
The rigid housing configuration requires an added peel back weather-seal EDPM rubber to ensure a positive seal and wear comfort. The flexible housing configuration can be printed with or without an added seal edge, the added seal provides greater comfort and positive seal assurance during jaw movement.
Cleaning of these masks is possible by wiping down with disinfectant and disposable wipe. Mask with no added seal can also be washed under submersion of soapy water/disinfectant solution.
- Cartridge Adapter- Current release supports the use of 3M commercial filters and custom cartridge filters that can be 3D printed
For additional sizes and detailed instructions on the tools/equipment required, materials used, fabrication process, and assembly guide for the performance respirator design please visit https://github.com/nasa-jpl/COVID-19-respirators/wiki/JPL-Comfort-Respirator.
