Getting Started with Resin Printing: Essential Gear and Equipment for Beginners
Updated: Apr 11
Resin printing has become increasingly popular in recent years, offering a level of detail and precision that other printing techniques simply cannot match.
However if you're new to the world of 3d-printing, you may be feeling a bit overwhelmed by the sheer amount of gear and equipment that's required to get started.
From printers and resins to UV lights, STL files and cleaning solutions, there are a lot of things to consider...
But fear not! In this guide, we'll break down the essential gear and equipment you need to start your journey into resin printing.
We've got you covered with everything you need to know to get started on your resin printing journey. ....So, without further ado, let's dive in!
Advantages of Resin Printing
Before we dive into the essential gear and equipment for resin printing, let's talk about why you might want to consider it in the first place.
Resin printing has several advantages over traditional printing techniques, including:
High level of detail: Resin printing produces incredibly detailed prints, with resolutions that can exceed what's possible with FDM or other traditional printing techniques.
Smooth surface finish: Resin prints have a smooth, polished finish that's difficult to achieve with other printing methods.
Wide range of materials: Resin printing can be done with a wide range of materials, including flexible resins, clear resins, and even metal-filled resins.
Overall, resin printing is a great choice if you need high-quality, detailed prints with a smooth finish. It's also an excellent option if you need to print small, intricate parts that would be difficult or impossible to produce using traditional printing methods.
Essential Gear and Equipment for Resin Printing
Let's talk about the essential gear and equipment you'll need to get started.
Here's a breakdown of the key items you'll need:
3D-Printer
The most essential piece of equipment for resin printing is, of course, the printer itself. There are a lot of different resin printers on the market, ranging from entry-level models to high-end professional machines. Here are some things to consider when choosing a resin printer:
Print volume: Consider the size STL files you plan to print the most, and choose a printer with a large enough build volume to accommodate them.
Resolution: Look for a printer with a high-resolution display and a small pixel size to achieve the best possible detail in your prints.
Ease of use: Some resin printers are easier to use than others, so consider your level of experience with 3D printing when choosing a model.
Price: Resin printers can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, so consider your budget when making a decision.
Resin
In addition to a printer, you'll also need resin to print your desired model with.
Resin is a liquid photo-polymer that solidifies when exposed to UV light.
There are a variety of different resins available, each with its own properties and recommended uses.
Here are a few things to consider when choosing a resin:
Color: Resin is available in a variety of colors, so choose the one that's best suited for your project.
Material properties: Different resins have different material properties, such as flexibility, hardness, and heat resistance. Consider the requirements of your project when choosing a resin.
Brand Compatibility: Some printers are only compatible with certain brands of resin, so make sure to choose a resin that's approved for use with your printer.
Computer
A computer or a similar device is needed for resin printing because it requires the use of a digital file (STL files) to create a physical object.
To print an STL files using a 3D-printer, a digital file of the object must be created or downloaded.
Take a quick break and browse through the collection of free STL files available for download!!!๐ Click on the picture below๐
or CLICK HERE
This file need to be loaded into a software called generally 'Slicer' that allow the user to adjust settings such as layer thickness, print speed, and exposure time and make the file readable for the 3d-printer!!!
In summary, a computer is necessary for resin printing because it is needed to create, modify, and load digital files into the printer's software, which is part of the printing process.
Without a computer, it would be impossible to perform these essential tasks and produce high-quality resin prints.
UV Light Source
In order to solidify the resin and create a 3D print, you'll need a UV light source to cure the resin. There are a few different options available, including:
UV curing chamber: If you're post-curing a lot of prints, a UV curing chamber can make the process more efficient.
External UV lamp: You can use an external UV lamp to cure your prints. Make sure to choose a lamp with the appropriate wavelength for your resin.
Sunlight: Direct sunlight can be used to cure your prints. It's intensity will determine the amount of time needed to cure your prints
Safety Equipment
Resin printing can be messy and potentially hazardous, so it's important to have the right safety equipment on hand.
Here are a few essential items:
Nitrile gloves: Resin can be irritating to the skin, so wear nitrile gloves to protect your hands.
Respirator: Some resins can release harmful fumes, so wear a respirator to protect your lungs.
Eye protection: Wear safety glasses or goggles to protect your eyes from resin splashes.
Silicon mat: A silicone mat is a useful accessory for protecting your 3D printing area from any unwanted drips or spills during the printing process. It provides a non-stick surface that is easy to clean, and can also help to reduce noise and vibration from the printer.
Cleaning Supplies
Finally, you'll need some cleaning supplies to clean your prints and your printer.
Here are a few things to consider:
Isopropyl alcohol (IPA)/: IPA is a common cleaning solution for resin prints. Bio-ethanol is an effective solvent for cleaning and removing this resin too. Use one of them to clean your prints and your printer.
Funnels and filters: When disposing of used resin or cleaning solutions, use funnels and filters to prevent clogs and spills.
Paper towels: Keep plenty of paper towels on hand to clean up spills and wipe down your printer.
With these essential items, you'll have everything you need to get started with resin printing. Of course, there are plenty of additional accessories and tools you can invest in to make the process even easier, but these are the bare essentials.
Conclusion
Resin printing can be a bit intimidating for beginners, but with the right gear and equipment, it's a rewarding and enjoyable hobby that can produce some truly stunning prints.
Remember to prioritize safety and keep your printer well-maintained, and don't be afraid to experiment with different resins and printing settings to achieve the best possible results.
Happy printing!
The Admiral