As demand for masks skyrocket, 3D printers help in fight against Covid-19

About 500 shields have gone to the Santa Clara Valley Medical Center, where officials estimate nurses use up to 15 PPE sets over three shifts for just one patient

Oscar Valera likes to use 3D printers to build an assortment of crafts, but he is now turning his hobby toward the fight against the coronavirus pandemic.
 

In just four days, the New Jersey high school teacher has printed and distributed 200 face shields to medical professionals across the country, including Florida and Texas. He is far from done.
 

“One woman told me what you’re doing right now is giving people peace of mind. You’re probably saving lives,” said Valera, who found a shield design posted online.
 

Demand for face shields, along with N95-masks and other personal protective equipment (PPE)