Our community is large and wildly diverse, which is at the same time our strength and our weakness. #Activate10 is a movement seeking to increase communication between individuals and organizations across Fremont County and to promote positive action in our communities.
Maker Space 307 in Riverton has been busy 3D printing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for local organizations that provide services to infected or at-risk groups.
Spearheading this is Maker Space 307 Director David Maulik. He has dedicated a lot of time during the past few weeks in finding patterns and materials that work best for making PPE.
The face masks average a few hours to 3D print, whereas 2-3 face shields can be made in 30 minutes. They can both be easily cleaned and disinfected (not in a dishwasher). Dipping the face mask in hot water and then putting it on will allow it to mold to your face for a customized fit. The masks do need a filter. N-95 masks can be cut up into about 6 sections, shared Lorre Hoffman from Makers Space 307. Fabric can also be used and certain furnace filters have also been used.
If you work for a hospital or are a healthcare worker in Wyoming and you are interested in 3D printed PPE or you are interested in getting some for an organization, you can contact David at the Makers Space 307 by emailing [email protected] or calling 307-240-3134.
They have also been working to connect with schools and other Makers Space’s across Wyoming and in neighboring states with 3D printers. If you have access to a 3D printer and would like to help please contact David. The Lander Valley High School Makers Space is also making PPE.
Thanks to MakerSpace 307, LVHS Makerspace is now working to make PPE for our local health care providers. Mr. Shoutis has made 30 faceshields from our 2 3D printers for local healthcare providers. Add a plastic film to the visors and nurses and drs are protected! pic.twitter.com/94KrL2974D
— Lander Valley HS (@Fremont1_LVHS) April 6, 2020
If you want to help but don’t have access to 3D printers and you can help purchase materials for them to continue to making PPE, please let them. Any and all is appreciated! “At some point, we will run out of materials,” David noted.
You can also contact the Makers Space 307 by sending a message on their Facebook page.