You have just purchased your first resin 3D printer and want to start printing. Where do you begin? With the 3DArt team, we have selected the essential resources and steps for those who, like us, are venturing into 3D printing for the first time. Below are the main points, links to tools, videos, and products that we have tested and consider valuable, which we are happy to share with you. If you have any tips or want to share your experiences with 3D printing products and techniques, please share and comment below!
Unboxing & setting up the Elegoo Saturn 2 8K – Chitubox slicing & 3D Printing with Monocure 3D Resin
Preparing the model for 3D printing
3D Model preparation: The main part of this process is undoubtedly 3D modeling and managing 3D meshes. In this step, you can use the software that you are most familiar with and that you find most convenient for your 3D modeling process. You can model or import a 3D model directly using software such as Blender, Autodesk Fusion 360, SketchUp, Maya, 3DS Max, Cinema 4D, ZBrush, and many others.
Once you have modeled or imported the 3D model into the modeling software, make sure it doesn’t have any issues and is ready for printing by checking the geometry, dimensions, and scale.
Slicer software: Use slicing software specifically designed for 3D printers. This software transforms your model into a specific file format that can be read by the printer. There are many software options available, both free and paid. One of the best free slicer software options you can download is Ideamaker (Download Ideamaker for Windows, Max, Linux)
How to 3D Print with ideaMaker | Slicing Software Basics
Software setup: In the slicing software, configure settings specific to your resin 3D printer. These settings include layer thickness, UV light exposure, print speed, and other variables that affect the quality of the final result.
STL Geometry Check: Check model geometry to make sure it is correct and ready to print. Remove any overlapping geometry, unconnected dots or lines, or other normal errors, which may affect printing. You can use analysis tools or check the robustness of the model to find potential problems such as Netfabb(Download Basic Netfabb for Windows, Mac. and Linux)
Printer Preparation: Check and clean your resin 3D printer to make sure it is in top condition. Check the resin liquid level and make sure the build platform is well aligned. I got to use the resin 3d printer and we recommend the Elegoo Saturn 2 8K: https://amzn.to/3rbGoPO
Loading resin: Choose the right type of resin for your print and pour it into the tank of the printer. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper resin use. We advise you to use water-washable resins, like this one: https://amzn.to/3XB0vD8
Loading resin: Choose the right type of resin for your print and pour it into the tank of the printer. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper resin use. We advise you to use water-washable resins, like this one:
Platform Calibration: Perform a thorough calibration of the build platform to ensure good model adhesion during printing. This is especially important for getting precise details.
Start Printing: Transfer the silicate model file to your resin 3D printer and start printing. Be sure to monitor the initial process to ensure everything is running smoothly.
Complete guide to print in resin with Elegoo Mars 3
Post-processing: Once the print is completed, carefully remove the model from the build platform. In some cases, it may be necessary to remove supports and wash the model in a specific solvent to remove the uncured resin.
Washing and curing the resin: An essential part of our resin 3D printing process is the cleaning and drying of our freshly printed resin model. Fully cure the model exposed to UV light or use a post-curing oven, depending on the type of resin used. We recommend using the ELEGOO Mercury X Bundle by Elegoo.
Curing and finishing: Afterwards, you can apply any desired finishes, such as painting or polishing, to achieve the desired result, using miniature painting techniques: Mercury X Bundle di Elegoo
Remember to always consult the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer of your resin 3D printer, as processes and settings may vary slightly depending on the model you own.
