Turn a $20 Air Filter into a Solder Fume Extractor

thingiverse

The TruAir air filter is available for approximately $20. It features replaceable charcoal filter pads, which can be purchased in packs of three for $10. This option proves more cost-effective than most soldering fume extractors, which typically retail at a minimum of $50. There are two distinct versions of the base unit: one includes a side cup designed to hold tools, solder, or flux, while the other version does not. I opted to design the cup in this manner because it allows me to store swatches of paper towel within its confines, preventing them from being dislodged by the air exhaust emanating from the left side of the TruAir unit. The hood can be successfully printed without supports if you adopt a "lay flat" approach, positioning the smaller end of the hood against the print bed. Similarly, the base can be printed with ease using this method, as long as it is oriented with its flat side facing the print bed. A suggested modification to enhance effectiveness involves applying tape over the grill sections that extend beyond the hood's boundaries.