Best Wash and Cure Stations for Resin 3D Printing

Resin 3D printing has come a long way, and with it, the tools for post-processing have significantly improved. The “Best Wash and Cure Stations for Resin 3D Printing” article closely examines the top solutions for 2024, reflecting the latest advancements in this essential step of 3D printing. From pickle jars and direct sunlight methods to sophisticated 2-in-1 combo machines like the Anycubic Wash & Cure and Elegoo Mercury XS, the guide provides a comprehensive overview for every level of user. Whether you’re a casual hobbyist or a frequent printer, you’ll find valuable insights into the best equipment to keep your prints spotless and perfectly cured. Enjoy exploring and enhancing your resin 3D printing with these recommended stations! Have you ever wondered about the best methods to achieve flawless resin 3D prints? Yes, the magic of resin 3D printing goes beyond the printer itself! Post-processing is a crucial step where your prints transform from good to outstanding. In this article, we’ll explore the “Best Wash and Cure Stations for Resin 3D Printing” in 2024, dissecting each process and unit to ensure your 3D prints get the finishing touch they deserve.

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The Basics of Post-Processing

In resin 3D printing, post-processing isn’t just an afterthought—it’s an essential part of the journey. The process involves washing the newly printed parts to remove excess resin and then curing them under UV light to solidify the structure. This ritual ensures the prints are durable, accurate, and ready for handling.

The Old School: Pickle Container and Direct Sun

Before sophisticated wash and cure stations became the norm, DIY solutions dominated. Imagine pouring your heart into a 3D model only to leave it at the mercy of the whimsical sun for UV curing. Here’s a peek into how it was done, and why things have changed:

• **Pickle Jar Washing: ** This involves submerging your print in a pickle jar filled with isopropyl alcohol (IPA) and shaking it vigorously. Sure, it’s simple, but it’s not the gentlest on fragile designs.

• **Direct Sun Curing: ** Setting out your print in the sun sounds eco-friendly, but it’s unpredictable. Curing is uneven, slow, and you risk over-curing the model. Picture having to turn your print manually every few hours to ensure exposure on all sides.

The Transition: Evolution of Wash and Cure Stations

Just like the transition from horse-drawn carriages to electric cars, resin 3D printing evolved. Modern wash and cure stations offer a seamless, reliable, and efficient solution, ensuring your prints look as impressive as they deserve to be.

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The Best Bundles and 2-in-1 Solutions

Below are some of the best wash and cure stations of 2024. These solutions streamline the post-processing of resin prints, making the task both practical and professional.

Elegoo Mercury XS Bundle

Price: $249

Elegoo has been a trusted name in the resin 3D printing community. Their Mercury XS Bundle is tailored for those running multiple printers or handling large-scale projects.

Specs:

• **Wash Volume: ** 201mm x 124mm x 255mm
• **Cure Volume: ** φ200mm x 260mm

What Makes It Special?

The Mercury XS Bundle can accommodate prints from two Mars printers simultaneously or from larger printers like the Saturn 3. The beauty lies in its two separate units, allowing simultaneous washing and curing without the need to juggle components constantly. Fancy curing a complex object with internal features? The included handheld UV lamp ensures every nook gets its share of curing love.

Anycubic Wash and Cure Plus

Price: $169-199

Anycubic, renowned for its quality and affordability, answers the demands of larger print enthusiasts with the Wash and Cure Plus. Designed to partner seamlessly with bigger machines like the Photon Mono X, this station proves to be both stylish and functional.

Wash Volume: 192mm(L) x 120mm(W) x 290mm(H)

Cure Volume: 190mm(D) x 245mm(H)

Why Go for Anycubic?

The Plus-sized station boasts a perfect match aesthetically and functionally with Anycubic’s own printers. The L-shaped platform ensures stability and effective washing, while the omnidirectional curing system ensures even exposure.

Elegoo Mercury Plus 2.0

Price: $169-199

Elegoo hits the sweet spot with the Mercury Plus 2.0—ideal for both beginners venturing into resin printing and seasoned users who appreciate reliability.

Wash Volume: 125mm x 85mm x 160mm

Cure Volume: φ140mm x 165mm

Why Choose Mercury Plus 2.0?

Elegoo’s Mercury Plus 2.0 is a solid introduction to 2-in-1 washing and curing. It simplifies the post-processing stage, turning a sticky mess into a streamlined system of elegance and efficiency.

Phrozen Wash and Cure Kit

Price: $199

Phrozen offers a comprehensive kit that caters to the avid 3D printer who handles intricate details and prefers immaculate finishes. Dual units offer flexibility and efficiency.

What Sets Phrozen Apart?

Their unique addition of a drying fan before curing is a game-changer. It helps eliminate white marks that sometimes appear after washing, giving your prints a polished finish that stands out.

Other Combinations

Not every print fits into a one-size-fits-all solution. Some demand specialized care, and here’s where alternative combinations come in.

Ultrasonic Cleaner Professional Washing Equipment

Why Consider Ultrasonic Cleaners?

Ultrasonic cleaners leverage high-frequency sound waves to create cavitation bubbles that clean the prints meticulously—even in those hard-to-reach places.

Advantages:

• Regulated Temperature: Ensures specific resins are cleaned at optimal conditions.
• Gentle Cleaning: Perfect for delicate structures.

Note: Avoid using IPA in these machines due to its flammable nature.

SUNLU Ultrasonic Cleaner

Price: $62.99-$69.99

SUNLU’s Ultrasonic Cleaner introduces a gentle yet effective cleaning approach, ideal for intricate models like miniatures.

Features:

• Versatile Cleaning: From cleaning prints to jewelry.
• Compact Size: Fits comfortably even in a small workspace.

Best Method: Pre-rinse your prints in a regular IPA bath, then finish them with SUNLU’s ultrasonic vibrations for that final touch of cleanliness.

SUNLU UV Curing Box

Price: $49

SUNLU also offers a dedicated UV curing box, emphasizing an even curing process for consistent quality.

Why This Box?

The Innovations

The world of 3D printing is ever-evolving, and innovations keep pushing the boundaries. Let’s take a look at a couple of standout entries that have made their mark recently.

Anycubic Wash & Cure Max

As new as it gets, the Anycubic Wash & Cure Max promises to set a new standard in the post-processing arena.

Prusa CW1S

Prusa, always a benchmark in 3D printing, offers CW1S as a comprehensive solution combining multiple functionalities.

Why Prusa?

It’s not just about washing or curing; it’s about an ecosystem that Prusa masterfully integrates into their flagship 3D printing units.

Conclusion

Investing in a wash and cure station for your resin 3D prints isn’t just a luxury; it’s a step toward achieving professional-grade results. From the all-inclusive bundles like Elegoo Mercury XS to the innovative ultrasonic cleaners by SUNLU, the market offers an array of choices tailored to various needs.

Table Comparison

Brand	Model	Price	Wash Volume	Cure Volume
Elegoo	Mercury XS Bundle	$249	201mm x 124mm x 255mm	φ200mm x 260mm
Anycubic	Wash and Cure Plus	$169-199	192mm x 120mm x 290mm	190mm x 245mm
Elegoo	Mercury Plus 2.0	$169-199	125mm x 85mm x 160mm	φ140mm x 165mm
Phrozen	Wash and Cure Kit	$199	N/A	N/A
SUNLU	Ultrasonic Cleaner	$62.99-69.99	N/A	N/A
SUNLU	UV Curing Box	$49	N/A	N/A

Would you rather spend hours tinkering under the sun or achieve professional finishes with modern solutions? The choice is clear. Elevate your resin 3D printing journey with the ideal wash and cure station that meets your specific needs. Happy printing!

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