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Chapter 16: Exhaust Filter

The exhaust filter is an important optional component that helps manage fumes and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released when printing with materials like ABS. It uses a fan to pull air from the chamber through an activated carbon filter before venting it outside.

Step 1: Housing Assembly

  1. Preparation: Install the M3 heat-set inserts into the printed parts of the exhaust housing.
  2. Fan Installation: Mount the 60mm fan inside the housing. Ensure the fan is oriented to pull air out of the printer chamber.
  3. Adapter: If you are using a Bowden tube to vent fumes to the outside, prepare the BSPP adapter. Some adapters have a small internal lip that must be carefully drilled out to allow the PTFE tube to pass through.

Exploded view of the exhaust filter housing Exploded view of the exhaust filter housing

An exploded diagram showing the printed housing parts, the 60mm fan, and the filter cartridge.

Step 2: Install Filter Material

The filter cartridge can be filled with your choice of filter media. Activated carbon pellets are highly recommended for absorbing VOCs.

  1. Fill the printed filter cartridge with activated carbon.
  2. Close the cartridge and place it inside the main exhaust housing.

Placing filter media into the cartridge Placing filter media into the cartridge

The printed filter cartridge being filled with activated carbon pellets before being sealed.

Step 3: Mount to Printer

The entire exhaust assembly mounts to the back panel of the printer.

  1. Use VHB double-sided tape to initially position the assembly on the outside of the rear polycarbonate panel.
  2. Secure it from the inside using M3 screws and the inner grill piece.
  3. Connect the fan's wires to an available fan port on your controller board.

Mounting the exhaust filter assembly Mounting the exhaust filter assembly

The fully assembled exhaust filter unit being mounted to the rear panel of the printer.