MakerBot, a Stratasys company, announced that the MakerBot Clean Air System with METHOD X received GREENGUARD Certification from UL, a global safety science leader. GREENGUARD Certification is an internationally recognized product emissions certification and labeling program for manufacturers of low-emitting indoor products, furnishings and materials. Products that have achieved GREENGUARD Certification by UL are scientifically proven to meet some of the world’s most rigorous, third-party chemical emissions standards.

The GREENGUARD Certifications were for the MakerBot METHOD, MakerBot METHOD X and MakerBot SKETCH 3D printers when printing with MakerBot Tough material, as well as the Clean Air System with METHOD X when printing with ABS, PC-ABS, and Nylon materials.

The Clean Air System, a dual-filtration smart-controlled system for the METHOD platform, addresses a concern when printing engineering materials in an office environment by providing an extra layer of protection against 3D printing emissions. Clean Air uses a two-layer filtration system comprising a HEPA filter for protection against ultra-fine particles (UFPs) and an activated carbon filter for protection against volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and odors. The system accounts for ambient conditions, chamber temperature, and model material, automatically maintaining METHOD’s print environment based on its surroundings. Clean Air’s smart-control features are integrated into METHOD’s workflow, creating a seamless 3D printing experience for users.

Achieving GREENGUARD Certification for the Clean Air System with METHOD X is the latest in Stratasys and MakerBot’s ongoing initiatives that aim to support industry safety, sustainability, and compliance. The announcement comes on the heels of MakerBot’s recent launch of MakerBot RapidRinse, a fast-dissolving water-soluble support material that removes the need for caustic chemicals and additional equipment during post-processing. METHOD and SKETCH 3D printers are equipped with features that help to ensure safer 3D printing usage, including enclosed build chambers designed to prevent access to the build plate while printing is in motion. SKETCH also includes a built-in particulate filter, making it suitable for 3D printing in classrooms.

The Clean Air System with METHOD X was tested for UFPs and VOCs in a controlled exposure chamber, according to ANSI/CAN/UL 2904.1. Findings from additional research tests showed that UFPs were reduced up to 100% and total VOCs were reduced up to 64%. Specific chemicals of health concern when printing ABS materials showed a significant reduction in emissions with Clean Air. All chemicals of concern also had emission rates and estimated office concentrations below recommended levels.