Diving into the world of 3D printing, you’ll quickly discover a myriad of methods folks utilize to finalize their creations. Interestingly, using water as a medium for curing resin 3D prints has recently gained traction – and for good reasons too! Join Carolina, your tech enthusiast, as I delve into the exciting realm of water curing. Let’s get your prints shimmering with that touch of perfection!
Discover the step-by-step guide on how to adeptly use water for your resin prints. Here’s a teaser: Fill a vessel with water, submerge the uncured print, and let the magic of UV lights (from a chamber or the sun’s glow) work its wonders in half the usual time. Stay tuned for more juicy details on this thrilling water-curing adventure.
Why Opt for Water Curing with Resin 3D Prints?
Digging deeper into the resin science reveals that oxygen plays a pivotal role in the photopolymerization phase but also poses some challenges. Specifically, oxygen interferes with the curing procedure because of certain chemical interactions with the uncured resin and UV rays. This is where water leaps into the spotlight! Submerging your resin 3D prints in water almost nullifies the oxygen interference, amplifying the curing intensity. And while water does seem clear, it filters some UV shades – but don’t fret! The wavelengths vital for resin curing pierce through seamlessly. What’s even cooler? Water’s refractive quality ensures UV rays reach every nook and cranny of your print for a uniform cure. The result? Robust, aesthetic 3D prints, just the way you like them! In fact, renowned brands like Peopoly endorse water as their primary curing method. Sure, there are minor hitches – like your masterpiece getting a tad wet. However, the perks majorly overshadow the drawbacks.
The Ultimate Guide to Water Curing Resin 3D Prints:
Ready to kick-start your water-curing journey? Gather these essentials:
– A transparent container (plastic or glass)
– Clean water
– Your uncured resin 3D print (supports off)
– A UV light source – could be a lamp or good ol’ sunshine
– Safety gear: nitrile gloves & protective eyewear
Here’s the action plan:
1. Pour water into the container.
2. Immerse the resin print ensuring total coverage.
3. Focus the UV light on the print.
4. Cure for half the usual duration.
5. Extract, set aside, and let it air dry.
The process is straightforward, giving your models that coveted optimal finish!
Top Water Washable Resins to Consider:
Elegoo Water Washable Resin
A popular choice among fans! The resin boasts high ratings, offering attributes like minimal odor, precise dimensionality, rapid printing, and an array of vivid colors.
Phrozen Water Washable Resin
Available in chic black and gray, it’s a top-tier resin perfect for intricate designs. The resin is sturdy and offers flexibility, making model extraction a breeze.
eSun Water Washable Resin
Riding the wave of popularity in the 3D print community, it stands out with its eco-friendly nature, impressive precision, and seamless cleaning experience.
How to Dispose of Resin Washable Water:
Two types of water come into play in the curing process. Post initial cleaning, it’s paramount to dispose of the water containing uncured resin correctly – cure it, scoop out the residue, then drain. As for the post-curing water, given it’s devoid of uncured resin, it’s drain-friendly. To elevate your cleaning game, consider adding an ultrasonic cleaner to your arsenal.