How do you prevent resin contamination and cross-linking in your 3D prototyping workflow?

1 What is resin contamination?

Resin contamination can occur when foreign substances, such as dust, dirt, grease, or moisture, get mixed with your resin or stick to your prints. This can cause problems with the curing process, the surface finish, and the mechanical properties of your prints, as well as clogging, jamming, or damage to your 3D printer and its components. To avoid resin contamination, you should store your resin in a cool, dry, and dark place - exposure to heat, light, or humidity can degrade it over time. Additionally, transfer your resin with airtight containers and clean funnels - avoid using the same container or funnel for different types of resin as they have different chemical compositions and curing times. Furthermore, regularly clean your 3D printer and its parts with a soft cloth, a brush, or a compressed air can to remove any dust or debris. Wipe down your build plate, resin tank and print head with isopropyl alcohol (IPA) or a dedicated resin cleaner. Lastly, filter your resin before and after each print with a fine mesh strainer or a coffee filter to remove any solid particles or cured bits from your resin.

2 What is cross-linking?

Cross-linking is a chemical reaction that occurs when resin molecules bond together to form a solid network, which can be triggered by UV light or heat, or unintentionally by ambient light, heat, or oxygen during storage or printing. This can cause your resin to harden, thicken, or change color, making it unusable or difficult to print with. To prevent cross-linking, use opaque or UV-blocking containers and covers to store and protect your resin. Additionally, keep your resin away from heat sources and minimize its exposure to air. You can use a thermometer to monitor the temperature of your resin and keep it within the recommended range for your printer and resin type. To remove any air from your resin container or tank, use a vacuum pump or a nitrogen purge. Lastly, cover your resin tank with a silicone mat or a plastic sheet when not in use.

3 How to fix resin contamination and cross-linking?

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you may encounter resin contamination or cross-linking in your 3D prototyping workflow. To salvage your resin or your prints, you can filter out dust and dirt through a fine mesh strainer or a coffee filter. If the contamination is caused by moisture, you can try to dry it in a warm oven or dehumidifier. If cross-linked by light or heat, you can re-liquefy it by heating it in a water bath or microwave. To clean contaminated prints, soak them in IPA or a dedicated resin cleaner for a few minutes and then rinse them with water and dry them with a soft cloth or paper towel. You may also need to cure the prints again with UV light or heat to ensure they are fully hardened and stable. With some care and attention, you can ensure that your resin and prints are clean, smooth, and durable.

4 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?