Materia Srl has successfully used the Sintratec S2 3D printing system in the fight against the coronavirus.
With 3D-printed adapters, diving masks can be transformed into respiratory devices.
Sintratec says it supports these efforts as far as possible and provides the company with the necessary printing material free of charge.
The mask adapters are manufactured additively through selective laser sintering (SLS). Image source: Materia Srl.
Materia Srl was one of the first companies in Italy to acquire a Sintratec S2 for its production. The SLS compact system was to be used primarily for engineering and prototyping purposes and to be applied in shipbuilding for example.
Following the calls of the national health system for alternative resources, the locally based market leader for diving equipment Mares developed an adapter for snorkeling masks in cooperation with Materia Srl. By means of a 3D printed component the “Sea Vu Dry+” model, normally part of underwater equipment, can be transformed into a functional face mask, suitable for artificial respiration in cases of respiratory failure.
Materia Srl reacted accordingly and within a very short time printed a first batch of adapters on the Sintratec S2 system and sent it to Mares for further usage.
The modification of the diving masks can be done within minutes. Image source: Il Secolo XIX.
Sintratec, the Swiss manufacturer of the 3D printing system, was also able to make a contribution through its Italian partner CMF Marelli: to support the company in production, Sintratec provided print-ready Sintratec PA12 powder, from which the mask adapters are made, free of charge.
Dominik Solenicki, Sintratec CEO, said: “In one of the most affected areas of the world, such creative measures are especially needed now. We hope that Materia Srl will be able to produce a large number of parts and save human lives.”