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Safety Instructions & Guidelines

The Metal 1.0 is an industrial manufacturing system. While designed for accessibility, it utilizes Class 4 lasers and fine metal powders. Adherence to these safety protocols is mandatory for all operators.

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CRITICAL WARNING: Failure to follow these instructions may result in severe injury or fire. Read the full User Manual before operating the machine.
Class 1 System

Laser Safety

Under normal operation with the enclosure closed, this machine is a Class 1 Laser Product (safe for eyes). However, it contains a Class 4 60W Laser source inside.

  • NEVER defeat or bypass the safety interlocks on the door. Doing so exposes you to Class 4 radiation.
  • NEVER perform maintenance on the laser while the system is powered. Live beam alignment is not required for this machine.
  • Do not modify the optical path or housing.
Respiratory & Materials

Powder Handling & PPE

Fine metal powders pose respiratory risks. Use appropriate protection to avoid inhalation.

  • Prohibited Materials: The use of reactive metals such as Titanium or Aluminum is strictly prohibited in this machine.
  • Respiratory Protection: Always wear a P3/N99 rated respirator or use a PAPR system when handling open powder or when cleaning the machine or the surroundings.
  • Skin Protection: Wear nitrile gloves and long sleeves. Do not allow powder to contact broken skin.
  • Cleaning: Use a vacuum cleaner equipped with a high-quality HEPA filter to prevent fine particles from re-entering the air.
  • Powder handling: Always wear the supplied ESD bracelet when vacuuming or handling powder to prevent static discharge
Fire Hazard

Fire Safety

Although reactive metals are banned, metal powder fires (steel/bronze) can still occur under extreme conditions.

  • Class D Extinguisher: A Class D (Metal Fire) extinguisher must be mounted within 5 meters of the machine.
  • NO WATER: Never use water on a machine fire.
Environment

Inert Gas (Nitrogen)

The build chamber is flooded with inert gas during printing. Safety depends on the source:

  • Internal Generator: If using the optional generator, the total room air balance remains constant (filtered O2 is vented back to the room). Asphyxiation risk is very low.
  • External Bottles: If using bottles, the room MUST be well-ventilated to prevent N2 accumulation (asphyxiation risk).
  • O2 Sensors: An O2 Depletion Sensor is recommended if using external bottles.
Facility

Facility Req.

Prepare your workspace before installation.

  • Stable Floor: Surface must support 100kg+ and be non-flammable (concrete/tile preferred).
  • Power: Standard grounded outlet.
  • Access: Keep 50cm clearance to the front and sides of the machine for cooling and emergency access. The rear can be positiond directly against a wall.