AQUA4D Redeploys 3D Printers to Help Hospitals’ COVID-19 Efforts

Aqua4D redeploys 3D printers to help hospitals’ COVID-19 efforts

Switzerland, like most other countries in the world, is currently gripped and brought to a standstill by the coronavirus crisis. But although companies have depleted staff numbers, with many self-isolating or unwell, thankfully the virus does not affect their machines.

On 3 April, The Ark,  a foundation in the Valais canton, put out an appeal for firms with 3D printers to help make crucial personal protective equipment (PPE) for local hospitals. Specifically, an unprecedented number of visors were needed for protecting staff and patients.

Aqua4D’s technical engineer, Julien Froidevaux , quickly got to work and redeployed the company’s 3D printers for this purpose. Normally used to making components for Aqua4D’s precision irrigation systems, the machines were reprogrammed to make visor parts with codes sent by The Ark and FabLab Sion. Just a day later, the first batch was delivered.

Just one more example of how times of crisis brings people together, motivated by a common goal.

Julien Froidevaux working on the visors

Finished visor pieces.

Time-lapse of the 3D printing process