Resin 3D printers are worth getting if you want to create high-quality, detailed, and durable models that are not possible with filament-based 3D printers. However, resin 3D printers also have some drawbacks, such as higher costs, more post-processing, and safety concerns. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of resin 3D printing, compare it with other 3D printing technologies, and help you decide if it is the right choice for you.
Resin 3D printing is a type of 3D printing that uses liquid resin as the raw material, instead of the plastic filament used in FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) 3D printing. Resin 3D printing works by curing the resin with a UV light source, either a laser or an LED, to form solid layers according to a digital model. This process is also known as photopolymerization, and the machines that use it are called SLA (Stereolithography), DLP (Digital Light Processing), or LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) 3D printers, depending on the type of light source they use.
Resin 3D printing is one of the oldest and most established 3D printing technologies, dating back to the 1980s. It is widely used in various industries, such as jewelry, dentistry, prototyping, and miniatures, because of its ability to produce high-resolution, smooth, and accurate models that are not limited by the nozzle size or the layer height of FDM 3D printers.
Pros of Resin 3D Printing
Resin 3D printing has many advantages over other 3D printing technologies, such as:
High resolution and accuracy: Resin 3D printers can create models with a resolution of down to 0.035 mm on the XY axes, and a layer height of as low as 0.01 mm on the Z axis. This means that resin 3D prints can capture fine details, complex geometries, and smooth surfaces that are not possible with FDM 3D printers. Resin 3D prints also have less visible layer lines, and do not suffer from issues such as warping, stringing, or overhangs that can affect the quality of FDM 3D prints.
Wide range of materials: Resin 3D printers can use different types of resins, each with its own properties and applications. For example, there are standard resins, which are the most common and affordable, and offer good strength and durability. There are also tough resins, which are more resistant to impact and stress, and are suitable for functional parts. There are flexible resins, which can bend and stretch without breaking, and are ideal for creating rubber-like models. There are water-washable resins, which are easier to clean and do not require alcohol or other solvents. There are also specialty resins, such as castable resins, which can be burned out to create metal molds, or ceramic resins, which can be fired to create ceramic models.
Strong and durable prints: Resin 3D prints are generally stronger and more durable than FDM 3D prints, because the resin monomers bond to form solid polymers, and do not have any gaps or weak points between the layers. Resin 3D prints also have higher tensile and shear strengths, which means they can withstand more force and pressure without breaking. Resin 3D prints are also less prone to degradation from UV light, moisture, or temperature changes, and can last longer than FDM 3D prints.
Resin 3D printing also has some drawbacks, such as:
Higher costs: Resin 3D printers are generally more expensive than FDM 3D printers, especially for larger models. Resin 3D printers also have higher operating costs, as resin is more costly than filament, and needs to be replaced more frequently. Resin 3D printers also require additional accessories, such as a resin tank, a resin vat, a build plate, a UV curing station, and a washing station, which add to the initial and maintenance costs. Resin 3D printers also consume more electricity than FDM 3D printers, as they need to power the UV light source and the LCD screen.
More post-processing: Resin 3D prints require more post-processing than FDM 3D prints, as they need to be cleaned, cured, and polished to achieve the best results. Resin 3D prints need to be washed with alcohol or water to remove any excess resin, and then cured with a UV light to fully harden and stabilize the resin. Resin 3D prints also need to be sanded, filed, or trimmed to remove any support structures, and then polished or painted to improve the appearance and the surface finish. Resin 3D prints also need to be stored in a dark and dry place, as they can be damaged by exposure to sunlight or moisture.
Safety concerns: Resin 3D printing involves working with chemicals that can be harmful to human health and the environment. Resin is a toxic substance that can cause skin irritation, eye damage, respiratory problems, and allergic reactions if not handled properly. Resin also emits a strong odor that can be unpleasant and nauseating. Resin 3D printing requires wearing protective gloves, masks, and goggles, and working in a well-ventilated area. Resin 3D printing also requires proper disposal of the used resin, the resin tank, the resin vat, and the cleaning solvents, as they can contaminate the soil and the water sources.
Resin 3D Printing vs Other 3D Printing Technologies
Resin 3D printing is not the only 3D printing technology available, and it may not be the best option for everyone. Here are some comparisons between resin 3D printing and other 3D printing technologies, such as FDM, SLA, and SLS.
Resin 3D printing vs FDM 3D printing: FDM 3D printing is the most popular and affordable 3D printing technology, and it works by extruding molten plastic filament through a heated nozzle, and depositing it layer by layer on a build platform. FDM 3D printing is easy to use, and can print large and complex models with various colors and materials. However, FDM 3D printing has lower resolution and accuracy than resin 3D printing, and can produce models with rough surfaces, visible layer lines, and poor details. FDM 3D printing also has limitations in printing overhangs, bridges, and supports, and can suffer from warping, stringing, and clogging issues. FDM 3D printing is suitable for hobbyists, makers, and educators, who want to create low-cost and functional models, such as toys, tools, and prototypes.
Resin 3D printing vs SLA 3D printing: SLA 3D printing is the oldest and most established resin 3D printing technology, and it works by directing a UV laser beam at a vat of liquid resin, and tracing the cross-section of each layer until the model is completed. SLA 3D printing is similar to resin 3D printing, and can produce high-resolution, smooth, and accurate models with a wide range of materials. However, SLA 3D printing is more expensive and complex than resin 3D printing, and requires more calibration and maintenance. SLA 3D printing also has a smaller build volume and a slower print speed than resin 3D printing, and can produce more waste and heat. SLA 3D printing is suitable for professionals, designers, and engineers, who want to create high-quality and detailed models, such as jewelry, dentistry, and miniatures.
Resin 3D printing vs SLS 3D printing: SLS 3D printing is a type of powder-based 3D printing technology, and it works by using a laser to sinter and fuse powdered material, such as nylon or metal, layer by layer, until the model is formed. SLS 3D printing can produce strong, durable, and flexible models with high complexity and no need for supports. However, SLS 3D printing is more expensive and inaccessible than resin 3D printing, and requires specialized equipment and expertise. SLS 3D printing also has lower resolution and surface finish than resin 3D printing, and can produce models with a rough and grainy texture. SLS 3D printing is suitable for industrial, medical, and aerospace applications, who want to create functional and end-use parts, such as gears, hinges, and implants.
Resin 3D printing is a 3D printing technology that offers high-quality, detailed, and durable models that are not possible with filament-based 3D printers. However, resin 3D printing also has some drawbacks, such as higher costs, more post-processing, and safety concerns. Resin 3D printing is worth getting if you want to create high-quality, detailed, and durable models that are not possible with filament-based 3D printers. However, resin 3D printing is not the best option for everyone, and you should consider your needs, budget, and preferences before buying a resin 3D printer. Resin 3D printing is also not the only 3D printing technology available, and you should compare it with other 3D printing technologies, such as FDM, SLA, and SLS. In conclusion, resin 3D printing is a powerful and versatile 3D printing technology that can create amazing models, but it also comes with some challenges and limitations that you should be aware of. If you are interested in resin 3D printing, you can check out some of the best resin 3D printers on the market, and see for yourself what they can do.
