Vacuum Formed Masks from 3D Printed Mold

Virtually Maker Faire 2020

May 22nd-23rd

The creation of 3D printed masks as a backup when PPE supplies are not available is a fantastic option but, at 4 hours a print, even a great design like the Montana Mask is severely limited in terms of the number that can be made. We have designed a version of the Montana Mask that can be made using a vacuum forming machine from a 3D printed mold. Even our small vacuum former, which has a working area of 10 x 12 inches, can make more than 20 masks in an hour. These masks are made from a sing sheet of PET plastic, which eliminates some of the issues with layer lines and makes it easier to sanitize. Using the same 3D printed filter holder as the Montana mask, you can make replaceable filters out of vacuum cleaner bags or other HEPA filter materials. While not a replacement for certified n95 masks, this design has significant advantages over other face mask designs.