3D printing company provides face shields to help with coronavirus pandemic

SYS Systems has launched a project to create protective face shields to help with the crisis.

The company is now encouraging manufacturers across the UK to do the same, due to the urgent need to equip thousands of NHS workers, law enforcement professionals and other key workers with full-face plastic visors to enable them to work safely on the front line.

Derbyshire-based SYS is using its range of Stratasys 3D printers at its additive manufacturing centre headquarters to create as many of the masks as possible and distribute them to those in need.

Do you own a 3D printer and are available to help?

The company has also contacted all customers who own the relevant 3D printers which are required to do the work and sent them clear, Stratasys-approved designs and instructions to get started. The instructions are available for any manufacturer to download and use. You can access them here.

Do you produce components but need help with distribution?

Additionally, those who can produce visors or shields in bulk but who do not have a customer for them are being urged to send them to SYS Systems for wider distribution.

Hygiene and shipping

To help maximise hygiene and for ease of shipping, SYS Systems is recommending that those able to print protective face shields allow the provider or end user of the items to assemble them.

Bureau Work

The company is also making its 3D printers available for bureau work to ease the pressure being heaped on UK manufacturers by the coronavirus pandemic, with staff shortages and supply chain disruptions taking place. More information about the services on offer can be found here.

Company statement

SYS Systems managing director Matt Fulton said: “Like everyone else we have been inspired by the efforts of NHS staff and our emergency services in these uncertain times, so we felt it was our duty to do something to assist.

“3D printing is proving an essential part of the global response to the Covid-19 epidemic due to how quickly and reliably it can produce parts related to shields, masks and ventilators among other things, helping to address shortages.

“We hope our customers will join us in doing everything we can to arm key workers with the tools they need to perform their essential duties, and we thank them in advance for their support.”