CHICAGO— Fast Radius, a manufacturing technology company, launched production of reusable face shield kits to be used by health care workers treating patients during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Recognizing the immediate need for personal protective equipment (PPE) for medical professionals and other key responders, Fast Radius created an improved design for its face shield that made production and use more affordable and sustainable.
The company has already shipped 1,500 face shield kits, and is ramping up production to make up to 10,000 a day. Fast Radius also is donating 250 face shield kits to Swedish Hospital in Chicago.
“The global crisis demands a rapid response by the manufacturing industry, and Fast Radius is working with other companies and medical professionals to answer the call,” Fast Radius CEO Lou Rassey said. “Recent innovations in industrial additive manufacturing have increased our flexibility and response time, and we’re putting those to use for the public good.”
The demand for PPE is pressing because the U.S. stockpile is nearly depleted and cases of COVID-19 are soaring, according to various news reports.
Fast Radius is actively seeking orders for its face shields, and can fulfill those orders within days.
Fast Radius has designed its face shield kit with major advantages that set it apart from other shields on the market, the company said. For starters, the Fast Radius face shield “halo,” or headband, allows for universal use with any industry-standard PETG/PC shield.
Also, the halo is reusable. This extends the lifespan of the face shield kits by five to 10 times, keeping critical supplies in the hands of those fighting COVID19 while also saving money and reducing waste. With proper care, users could be wearing the same face shield for months.
Fast Radius’ halo is produced quickly through additive manufacturing, also known as 3D printing. The materials can withstand standard hospital cleaners/disinfectants.
In addition to equipping medical professionals, the face shields can be used by fire departments, police departments, nursing homes, correctional facilities, dental offices and others who maintain close contact with the public. Ideally, workers who use a protective facemask will also wear the shield, as it prolongs the longevity of the mask.
To learn more about the product or get information on ordering, go to fastradius.com/face-shields.
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