Based in Wisbech, Rapid Manufacturing Consultancy FRP has recently teamed up with another local company – Pure Fine Laser of Sandall Road – to provide high specification free Face Shields for key workers at the Alan Hudson Day Treatment Centre based on the North Cambs Hospital site.
Using a ‘best of both’ approach, FRP 3D printed the headband and lower curved sections in tough ABS plastic and Pure Fine Laser supplied the laser cut, medical grade clear PETG sheet for the main shield. FRP assembled these 3 items before adding a foam liner for comfort and a perforated elastic strap to make the final product completely adjustable for the end user.
Recent studies have shown that in addition to the PETG material being suitable for cleaning with alcohol, user comfort and adjustability were 2 major factors for key workers having to wear this type of PPE for extended periods, typically in conjunction with other items of PPE such as a surgical mask.
FRP’s Managing Director Nick Osborn explained: “I spoke to Jason Hatcher at Pure Fine Laser and we agreed we just wanted to do something to help and support our fantastic local key workers. Our work in highly regulated markets such as the Medical and Automotive sectors has given us the experience to make a real difference with a high specification, fully adjustable and comfortable Face Shield suitable for use throughout a long shift.”
