Researchers from the Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M) are using 3D printing systems to manufacture protective screens that can be used to combat COVID-19 in the Community of Madrid. The printing of the first units is currently under way. The protective screens should arrive at health centers in the region in the next days.

Researchers from the Department of Systems Engineering and Automation and the Department of Bioengineering and Aerospace Engineering are collaborating on this project, in co-ordination with the University’s Technical Office and in collaboration with the IT Service. They have primarily adapted and calibrated more than twenty 3D printers and collected the necessary materials: PET plastic sheets and PVC for the screens and PLA plastic coils for the visors. After conducting the corresponding tests to validate the components, the 3D printing has already started, and it is estimated that they could produce at least 50 units per day. 

A team of more than ten people are currently working in shifts at the UC3M’s School of Engineering. They are strictly complying with personal isolation requirements and the use of individual protective equipment enforced by health authorities. The supply of materials and distribution of production are primarily coordinated by the Leganes City Council, which is providing support for the collection and transport of materials needed to produce the screens.

The 3D printer model that is currently being used is approved by the Department of Health of the Community of Madrid. Printing models, instructions for calibrating equipment, forms to register units that are being created and distribution groups that have been set up to organise transport can be found on their website.

Furthermore, various companies from the UC3M Science Park are following this line of work in a supplementary way. AEON-T and Luz WaveLabs use 3D printing to supply parts, mainly the protective visors for health care personnel. They manage the distribution of the material they produce through their own channels.

Further information can be found here.