Basic settings and maintenance of a resin 3D printer

In general, LED-LCD-based resin 3D printers are significantly simpler than other technologies such as FDM or SLS. However, they also require regular calibration and maintenance. It is also important to know which are the consumable elements and their useful life.

Calibration of a resin 3D printer

Calibrating a resin printer is usually simple and quick, but it is important to do it correctly to minimise the risk of failure. Generally, most resin 3D printers require three types of calibration to be performed:

• Printer levelling: Because they work with liquid material, resin 3D printers need to be correctly levelled. For this purpose, many models include small height-adjustable feet and a level indicator, either digital or bubble level. Correct levelling ensures that all areas of the resin tank are at the same height.                                                                                                                                                                                                                   
• Levelling the printing platform: One of the most important tasks is to ensure that the printing platform is completely parallel to the LCD panel. Otherwise, parts may not adhere properly in some areas of the platform or even damage the LCD panel.                                                                       
• Platform height calibration: Like the levelling of the printing platform, this is essential to avoid printing failures. Correct calibration ensures that the platform is close enough to the panel for the first layer to adhere properly, but not so close that it can damage the LCD panel.

While most professional-level resin 3D printers generally allow these calibrations, entry-level or budget models may only allow platform height calibration.

Certain professional models with advanced features may require additional calibrations for level sensors or autofill systems. It is important to always consult the equipment manual for all required calibrations.

Consumable or wear parts

Resin 3D printers have three elements with a certain lifespan that must be replaced periodically to ensure the best performance. These elements are: the resin tank, the printing platform and the LCD panel.

• The resin tank: There are multiple types, but all consist of a tank with a transparent surface on the bottom. This surface must be highly non-stick and flexible to prevent the part from sticking, either by affinity with the material or by suction effect. Over time, this surface loses properties, decreasing its flexibility and losing adhesion, which increases the risk of printing failure. To avoid this, it is necessary to replace the resin tank frequently. The lifetime of a print tank varies greatly depending on the manufacturer and the type of resin used, ranging from a few hours of use to hundreds of hours. To know the estimated lifetime, it is advisable to consult the printer's manual or the manufacturer. If you do not know the estimated life span, you should check its condition periodically. Loss of transparency, scratches or increased adhesion are indicators of degradation. It should be replaced at the first signs of damage, as a breakage during printing can seriously damage the 3D printer. Some manufacturers offer reusable tanks in which only the transparent film (FEP) needs to be replaced. This is a cheaper solution, but is more prone to failure due to poor fit or placement.

• Printing platform: Its good condition guarantees correct adhesion of the part. Its useful life varies from one 3D printer to another, so the manufacturer's recommendations should be consulted. A platform in poor condition can cause the first layer not to adhere, although this is not the most frequent cause, in this case it is necessary to check beforehand whether the platform is correctly levelled and the exposure of the first layers on the printing profile.

• LCD panel: Although not generally considered, the LCD panel is also a consumable item with a certain lifetime. It is common for manufacturers to provide a lifetime in hours for this element. After this time, it is advisable to replace the LCD panel, even if it is working, as its performance decreases with use and light leakage may occur, which may decrease the quality of the prints or degrade the resin in the tank more rapidly. It is very important to buy the right panel for each printer, as they can be different even between different models from different manufacturers. Only printers with LED-LCD technology (also known as MSLA or LCD) use LCD panels. In the case of SLA or DLP printers, the manufacturer should be consulted about the possibility of replacing the laser unit or the DMD, as this usually requires a replacement at a service centre.

Other tasks

In the case of resin 3D printers, cleaning is especially important. After each print, all the equipment must be checked and resin residues and splashes must be removed before they solidify, especially on the LCD panel. Optical paper should be used for this purpose, avoiding the use of solvents or alcohols.