You may be asking, why is STEAMwhiz, an educational hub for experiential science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematical adventures printing reusable mask respirator kits? If so, read more here. Looking for basic info on STEAMwhiz’s mask, make sure to watch the video below and read on…
Let’s go over the mask basics–
Performance
In our tests, the STEAMwhiz mask performed as good as a commercial N95 mask. Read more about about the test and performance of these masks and more in Dr. JP’s write up here.
Sizing
To help ensure proper fit, (3) sizes are available with kid sizing in the works inside the MakerLab. Thanks to the addition of the PE foam to obtain optimal seal and comfort, sizing is quite forgivable. My measurements indicate that I am a size (S). However, I am also able to wear a (M). So do not overstress over a few mm.
Sizing: Measure from the bottom of the chin to the bridge of the nose.
Small ~ 100mm, Medium ~ 120mm, Large ~ 140mm
What’s Included
This is a reusable mask kit for personal protection. The kit includes (1) mask, (4) elastic straps, (1) harness w/strap adjusters, and multiple filter housings with the fitted filter medium. Made from lightweight PLA plastic, the mask and “X” harness are easy to clean, comfortable and provide an excellent seal. PE foam is used for an airtight seal and provides all-day comfort. Unlike the N95 masks, where the polypropylene filter fibers are in direct contact with your skin causing irritation, the PE foam will provide a nice cushioned seal without embedding fine fibers into your skin.
The mask kit includes the filter medium (95% 1 um particles), already installed in the removable filter housings, which provides the needed protection from sneezes and coughs. We have two options available to select from:
- 2 filter housings with filter medium cut and fitted for the occasional use –or–
- 5 filter housings with filter medium cut and fitted for the workweek
Assembly Instructions
Before using the masks, we suggest inserting an additional layer, such as a coffee filter or paper towel, behind the filter housing for extra protection from particles that may come loose over time from the polypropylene filter medium (the same material that irritates your skin from the N95 masks). Use the plastic filter housing as a template to cut your additional layers of protection. It does not need to be precise, a slight overhang is ideal in this case. Insert additional layer between mouth shield and removable plastic filter housing, that is fitted with the filter medium. Clear as mud? Check out STEAMwhiz’s Assembly and Mask Care Instructional video (coming soon).
Filter housings snap in place and are removable for added convenience. Install and use (1) filter housing throughout the day and replace it with a new filter housing the next day.
The last thing you want is uncomfortable protection. PPE needs to fit properly and be comfortable enough to wear for the duration of your task or day. PPE that strains your ears, irritates your skin, and constantly needs adjusting will not provide you proper protection. That is why STEAMwhiz’s 3D-Printed Mask is fitted with comfortable PE foam and an adjustable “X” harness.
The final step in assembling your STEAMwhiz mask is to adjust the elastic strap length using the strap adjusters on the 3D-printed harness to ensure a snug seal. Multiple holes are provided for each elastic strap to ensure the optimal fit. Just say “No” to ear-fatigue!
Mask Care and Cleaning:
Clean the mask/harness by removing the filter housing with filter medium and spraying/wiping it with any common disinfectant. DO NOT spray down filter medium, as this could cause a premature break down of fibers. Here at STEAMwhiz our go-to disinfectant is an easy to make bleach/water solution. Each day we mix up 16 oz. of water with 2 teaspoons of bleach in a reusable spray bottle. This bottle is used throughout the day on surfaces, packages, masks, and any other items that can be safely disinfected with bleach.
Here are the guidelines to make a bleach/water solution recommended by the CDC:
- Unexpired household bleach will be effective against coronaviruses when properly diluted.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and proper ventilation. Never mix household bleach with ammonia or any other cleanser.
Leave the solution on the surface for at least 1 minute.
To make a bleach solution, mix: - 5 tablespoons (1/3rd cup) bleach per gallon of water
OR - 4 teaspoons bleach per quart of water
- Bleach solutions will be effective for disinfection up to 24 hours
Allow used filter housing to sit in a breathable bag, such as a paper bag, for a few days before using it again. Cycle through the other filter housings throughout the work week or whenever a mask is needed. Each day put used filter housing into a new breathable bag. Write the date to help keep this process organized. Remember DO NOT spray filter medium with disinfectant.
Note: We do not recommend using steam as this could deform the mask as temperatures approach 60C.
“Nice face mask! Where did you get it?” asks a grocery associate to my dad. He proudly responds, “My daughter made it for me on a 3D printer.” Grocery associate says, “Very cool!” My dad’s response sums up this post nicely, “Yeah…as far as face masks go (queue head-shaking).” So if you gotta wear a mask, might as well wear the coolest one!