If you are in search of a well-designed co-working space by a reputed office interior designer in Mumbai, then the use of a 3D printer will be of inevitable use to you. In a co-working space, you can expand your ideas and convert them into reality for your business. Most of the co-working offices have 3D printers to use on-site. Thus, if you are an artist or a designer, a 3D printer can be of immense use to you.
With this outstanding product, you can build prototypes of your own product before sending them to the manufacturing unit. You can also create prototypes of various medical models and sculptures and many innovative ideas with 3D printing. Co-working offices with 3D printers offer endless possibilities for creativity.
How to use a 3D printer in a co-working space?
- Select the correct material.
Not every 3D printing material is appropriate to work on. Some are flammable, prone to warping, or toxic compared to other materials. Based on the printer filament and its type, you have to take additional precautions for harmful dust, fire hazards, fumes, or any other accident.
For instance, nylon, polycarbonate, and ABS materials emit VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) and UFPs (Ultrafine Particles) that might irritate your nose, lungs, eyes, and throat.
On the contrary, PLA is a low-odor and biodegradable material that is completely safe to use. Check out the recommendations of the manufacturer and the MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) of the filament before printing.
- Wear protective gear
For safe 3D printing in a co-working space, always wear protective gear while handling the machine and the printing material. Gears like goggles, aprons, gloves, masks, and other gears will protect your eyes, respiratory system, and skin from toxic, sharp, or hot substances.
Also, implement various tools like pliers, spatulas, tweezers, scrapers, and others to take the printed objects from the build printer plate. It will prevent you from touching the finished product with bare hands. Always take precautions of not cutting yourself with blades, nozzle, or extruder on the 3D printer.
- Guidelines and protocols of the co-working space
Follow all the guidelines and protocols of the co-working space before printing the 3D objects. Always respect the rights of other members and communicate with them clearly before proceeding.
Also, stick to the safety procedures and regulations of the co-working space to prevent any incidents or issues. Be considerate and courteous of others, and do not interrupt others by creating unnecessary noise. At last, share your equipment and resources fairly with others to avoid any material wastage.
- Filter and ventilate the air.
Always check for sufficient air filtration and ventilation while using a 3D printer in a co-working space. It will reduce the concentration of UFPs and VOCs that might be gathered while using the printer.
Accumulation of these compounds might not only affect your print quality but, most importantly, your health. Turn on mechanical or natural ventilation, such as doors, fans, exhaust systems, windows, vents, ducts, or others.
Some office interior designers in Mumbai also design co-working spaces with enclosures, filters, or air purifiers to collect and eliminate all airborne contaminants during the 3D printing procedure. Never execute 3D printing in an overcrowded or confined space in a shared office. Keep a minimum safe distance from the 3D printer while it is running.
- Maintain and clean the printer.
Keeping the 3D printer clean after using it in a co-working space is another important aspect to remember. Regularly clean and examine various printer parts like the filament feeder, nozzle, build plate, and extruder to prevent jamming, overheating, or clogging.
Always lubricate the parts that always move in the machine, like belts, bearings, rods, and others. It will make sure there is less tear and wear, and the 3D printer runs smoothly while operating.
Also, properly dispose of waste materials like support structures, failed prints, or filaments, and never leave residue on the floor of your co-working space. Remember to store and label the filament spools in a cool and dry place. Never expose them to heat sources, direct sunlight, or moisture.
How 3D printing is Beneficial?
3D Printing acts as a catalyst and a facilitator for today’s DIY culture of the co-working space. Speedy turnaround time and restricted tooling costs of 3D printing have decreased the production processing time, making it more accessible for entrepreneurs and business owners. Mostly, 3D printing is used for making commercial prototype objects like specialized car parts, customized dental fillings, and phone covers.
Since co-working spaces are the new pioneers of collaborative working approaches, embracing 3D printing is advantageous in this atmosphere. In this new industrial age, 3D printing is playing a significant role in democratizing the manufacturing procedure for the masses.
Final Words
3D printing in a co-working space helps to improve your productivity by offering the prototyping possibilities of your designs and products. It is one of the best opportunities to enhance your creativity and work on it. So, are you ready to face the new change in a co-working space? Check out the above ways to use 3D printing and convert your creativity into reality.
