PRO Solder Fume Extractor w/ HEPA & Carbon

This project has been my biggest undertaking yet, with over a month of design work, weeks of research, countless prototypes, and numerous revisions. It’s been a challenging but rewarding journey, and I’m excited to finally share the result.

UPDATE 28/2/2025: The Official Print Profiles Are Now Available!

Featured in 3Printr.com!

When soldering, it's crucial to protect yourself from harmful fumes. This dual filter fume extractor is designed to not just redirect fumes, but to completely remove them from your workspace, ensuring clean air for you and those around you.

Effectiveness and Scientific Basis

Research has demonstrated that proper fume extraction is essential for worker health, as prolonged exposure to solder fumes can have negative health impacts. Solder fumes consist of 99.5% particles and 0.5% gases, with particles larger than 0.1 micron posing a threat to human health1.

Dual-stage filtration systems combining HEPA and activated carbon filters have been shown to be highly effective for solder fume extraction:

1. HEPA Filter: Captures tiny particles and dust with an efficiency rating of up to 99.97% on particles 0.3 microns and larger2.
2. Activated Carbon Filter: Absorbs harmful gases, fumes, and odors, crucial for filtering volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other gaseous pollutants.

The study compared the Sentry Air Systems SS Solder Sentry™ with the Weller Smoke Absorber™. The results showed that the Sentry Air Systems unit, which uses a comprehensive approach including a HEPA filter, achieved a particulate removal efficiency of 95.3%3. This is significantly higher than the 11.1% removal efficiency achieved by the Weller unit, which used a simpler carbon-activated filter system3.

Additionally, a study published in the Annals of Work Exposures and Health examined various commercially available air cleaners designed for use against solder fume. This research also supports the effectiveness of comprehensive systems in capturing solder fumes4.

What Makes This Fume Extractor Special?

• Advanced Two-Stage Filtration System
• Versatile Power Options: AC, DC, or PD (USB-C)
• User-Friendly Design: Support-free 3D printable, easy-to-source hardware
• Customizable Features: Optional hose attachment, adjustable fan speed

To make setup simple, I included clear wiring diagrams, a detailed assembly video, and step-by-step instructions.

Assembly Guide

1. Select Your Power Version: AC, DC, or PD
2. Choose Additional Parts: Handle, LED indicator, etc.
3. Gather Hardware and 3D Print Parts
4. Follow the Wiring Diagram
5. Watch the Assembly Video for Step-by-Step Guidance

Power Options - Choose What Works Best for You

Select your preferred power source for the fume extractor:

• AC Power: Plug it into a traditional wall outlet (some electrical knowledge required).
• DC Power: Uses a 12V DC jack, like common adapters for electronics.
• PD Power (USB-C): Modern and convenient with USB-C PD adapters supporting 12V.

Important Note: For the AC version, please ensure that all AC wires are properly soldered and 

Parts List (Approximate Cost: €50)

Essential parts (all versions require these):

• 3D Printed Parts (available for download on Printables)
• Noctua NF-F12 iPPC-3000 PWM Fan (120mm) - Amazon NL, Amazon US
• 12V PWM Controller - AliExpress
• Rocker Switch (21x15mm) - AliExpress
• M3 Socket Screws (19x, 6mm) - AliExpress
• M3 Heat Inserts (17x, 4.2mm OD, 3mm L) - AliExpress
• H12 HEPA Filter (120x120mm) - AliExpress 

Note: The included active carbon filter restricted airflow, so I only used the HEPA filter. Alternatively, you can use a 16mm EPA sheet cut to size (120x120mm): AliExpress 

• Active Carbon filter (Cut to size 120x120mm) - AliExpress 
• Wire (22-20 AWG recommended, thicker may be stiff) - AliExpress 

Additional Parts (depending on chosen power source):

• AC Power (Requires soldering skills): 
  • 12V switching power supply 1A version - AliExpress
  • male inlet socket - AliExpress 
  • 2x M3 nuts - AliExpress 
  • power cable - Amazon 
• DC Power: 
  • 12V 1A DC adapter - AliExpress 
  • Jack Socket Female - AliExpress 
• PD Power: 
  • PD adapter supporting 12V - AliExpress
  • 12V PD Power trigger Module - AliExpress

Please dont cheap out on power supplies. Use a well known brand. 

Optional Extras:

• Indicator LED light - AliExpress 
• 3D printed or store-bought handle - hardware store NL, Amazon US 
• Ø 125mm Hose for fume redirection - Amazon NL
• Rubber bumper - AliExpress 

Wiring Diagrams:

• AC wiring diagram

• DC wiring diagram

• PD wiring diagram

Additional:

• HEPA vs. HEPA+Carbon Filter Comparison

• PD Version Assembly

This extractor uses a E12 filter to balance airflow while still capturing the harmfull particles.

"Get the Files & save your lungs"

Updatelog: (day/month/year)

• 16/12/2024: Added extra spacers and a custom file

• 07/11/2024: Updated URLs