Form Wash L - FormLabs

FormLabs has created an entire ecosystem to automate the printing and post-processing process of 3D printed parts with SLA technology through its Form 3, Form 3B, Form 3L and Form 3BL equipment. The latter are the largest print volume versions developed by the manufacturer, allowing users to 3D print large resin parts.

Image 1: Comparison of Form 3 and the Form 3L. Source: FormLabs.

In addition to 3D printing equipment, FormLabs offers users curing machines, washing centres and even post-processing kits with which to achieve an optimum finish on 3D printed parts with FormLabs 3D printers.

Form Wash L is one of the elements developed by Formlabs to facilitate, streamline and automate the washing process of 3D printed parts with resin. This equipment is a modified version of the well-known Form Wash, with a much larger working volume than its predecessor, thus adapting to the needs of users of Form 3L and Form 3BL 3D printers.

Video 1: Form Wash L in operation. Source: FormLabs.

The operation of Form Wash L is very simple. Once a print has been completed on the  Form 3L and Form 3BL 3D printer, the build plate (including the part) can be removed and fed directly into the Form Wash L, without the need to wear gloves or remove the part from the build plate. If the user prefers, the part can be removed from the build plate and inserted into the Form Wash L wash basket.

It is also possible to wash two Form 3 fabrication bases at the same time using the fabrication base adapter included with Form Wash L.

Image 2: Adapter for washing two Form 3 fabrication bases. Source: FormLabs.

The user must then select the appropriate time according to the resin used. During the wash, the machine agitates the fluid to reach all corners of the part and clean the uncured resin residue evenly.

The Form Wash L has a working volume of 335 x 200 x 300 mm and is compatible with isopropyl alcohol, tripropylene glycol monomethyl ether and other solvents.

It is recommended for all Form 3L and Form 3BL users to have a Form Wash to automate post-processing and at the same time save time and money.

Image 3: Curing unit Form Cure L and washing unit Form Wash L. Source: FormLabs.

To make the printing process with this equipment fully automated, FormLabs has a curing unit called Form Cure L, which is necessary to achieve the optimum mechanical properties offered by each type of resin.