3D Systems, Inc.
21
SLS EQUIPMENT SAFETY FEATURES
A major design goal for all SLS equipment is to provide a safe operating environment . The frame and enclosure designs passively limit
hazardous access while the electronics and software actively and automatically sense and react to unsafe conditions when they arise .
For example, if the SLS system detects unsafe operating conditions, it will immediately stop operating and, in some cases, shut down
completely .
CAUTION: If any SLS equipment safety features fail, your actions may be all that will prevent potentially hazardous
operating conditions .
Safety Interlocks
Safety interlock devices on the SLS equipment help prevent accidental laser exposure, electrical shocks, crush injuries, burns, and
fires. SLS equipment will not operate unless all safety interlocks are satisfied.
CAUTION: Never try to disable or override any safety interlock device on any SLS equipment . Operating equipment
without all safety interlocks enabled can cause equipment damage, injury, or death . If you suspect a safety interlock
device is not working properly, do not operate your SLS equipment . Rather, disconnect power from the equipment
and contact 3D Systems Customer Support for assistance .
SLS System Response if an Interlock Fails
Safety interlock devices mounted on the SLS system sense the hazardous operating conditions below . The SLS system takes the
actions listed when an interlock fails .
SAFETY INTERLOCKED CONDITION
IF THIS INTERLOCK FAILS . . .
•
One or more internal print chamber panels are open
a
•
E-stop button pressed on user interface console
•
External oxygen monitor connected to SLS system
detects too little oxygen in room
•
Print will not start
•
Warning message appears on SLS system display
•
Red Stacklight illuminates
•
Nitrogen generator (if in use) shuts down
•
Warning message appears on SLS system display
•
Red Stacklight illuminates
•
Laser, motors, and valves disabled
•
Nitrogen supply shuts off
E-Stop Only:
•
CDA supply shut off
•
System power disabled
a. Internal panels are for service access only. Several interlocked panels are for customer maintenance: overflow cleanout, blackbody
cleaning port, and the filter box located on back of machine.
Limited Access and Barrier Shielding
SLS equipment frame and enclosure designs limit access to the following:
•
Service areas
, such as cabinets and enclosures for electrical power and automation controls . This prevents accidental exposure to
electrical shock hazards .
•
Material areas
, such as material feed hoppers, storage bins, and transport tubes . This prevents:
•
burn hazards by minimizing exposure to heated material
•
slip hazards by keeping material from dropping on the floor
•
fire hazards by minimizing airborne dust cloud formation and potential ignition. See SDS for complete material hazard details.
•
Laser beam optics and scanning areas,
including the fully-enclosed
Laser Enclosure
—where the laser beam originates—and
the interior of the print chamber, into which the beam projects . The Laser Enclosure and print chamber are designed to minimize
hazards such as burns, eye injury, and fire in the following ways:
•
The Laser Enclosure optics and laser beam duct (at the top of the print chamber, below the removable Laser Window)
prevents the laser beam from being aimed outside the print chamber .
•
The fully enclosed print chamber blocks laser radiation from escaping to the outside .