PERFECT Exposure times (calibration) - dial in your 3D printer resin [EASY METHOD]

Summary

This video provides a comprehensive guide to fine-tuning resin exposure times for 3D printing. Using Phrozen's XP Finder test, the presenter walks through the process of determining ideal exposure settings by conducting test prints and making small adjustments. Key tips include starting with overexposure, adjusting bottom layer times, and fine-tuning exposure with small increments for optimal results. The guide is applicable to a wide range of resin printers, from Phrozen to other popular brands like Elegoo and Anycubic. Additional advice on supports, lift speed, and temperature helps ensure successful prints and high-quality results.

Takeaways

• 😀 Exposure times are crucial for achieving good print quality with resin 3D printers, and getting them wrong can lead to poor results or print failures.
• 😀 The Phrozen XP Finder print is a useful tool to determine the ideal exposure settings for different printers and resins.
• 😀 When dialing in exposure times, it's generally safer to overexpose slightly rather than underexpose, as underexposure may result in no print at all.
• 😀 For monochrome printers with standard resin, starting exposure time of 3 seconds for normal layers is a good starting point, while specialty resins might need 6 seconds.
• 😀 For pre-monochrome printers, exposure times usually range from 7 to 15 seconds, with 12 seconds being a common starting point.
• 😀 Bottom layer exposure times should be significantly higher than normal layers, often about 10 times longer, to ensure good adhesion to the build plate.
• 😀 A typical exposure test sequence involves adjusting exposure times by small increments (e.g., 0.5 seconds) and carefully inspecting results to determine the optimal setting.
• 😀 Adjusting the lift speed (the speed at which the plate rises from the resin) can help prevent print failures, especially with brittle resins.
• 😀 Room temperature affects resin curing; most resins work best around 25°C, and an enclosure heater may be needed in cooler environments to maintain consistent temperature.
• 😀 After determining the ideal exposure time with the Phrozen XP Finder, it’s recommended to increase exposure time by 10% for smaller prints and 20% for larger prints (over 12 cm).
• 😀 Print quality can be optimized by ensuring proper support structures, slow lift speeds for fragile resins, and a consistent print environment to avoid failures and achieve detailed prints.

Q & A

What is the main problem when dialing in exposure times for resin 3D printing?

The main problem is that incorrect exposure times can lead to poor print quality or print failures. It's challenging to find the right exposure settings, especially if no helpful data or recommendations are available for your specific resin and printer.

How does the Phrozen XP Finder help with setting exposure times?

The Phrozen XP Finder is a print that helps users determine the ideal exposure time for their resin and printer by printing various patterns. Users can then compare their printed results with the guidance provided by Phrozen to fine-tune their exposure settings.

What initial exposure times should I try for monochrome and non-monochrome printers?

For monochrome printers, start with a normal exposure time of 3 seconds. For non-monochrome printers, a good starting point is around 12 seconds for normal layers.

What should I do if my print shows signs of overexposure?

If overexposure is detected, you should reduce the exposure time in small increments, such as 0.5 seconds for monochrome printers, and test again. Signs of overexposure include blurry text, wider lines, and unexpected holes in the print.

How can I test and fine-tune my exposure settings?

After printing the XP Finder, carefully inspect it for signs of over or underexposure. Adjust the exposure time in small steps, such as 0.5-second increments, and reprint the test. Comparing the results will help you narrow down the ideal exposure time.

What is the recommended method for adjusting the bottom layer exposure time?

The bottom layer exposure time should typically be 10 times longer than the normal exposure time. For example, if your normal layer exposure is 2.8 seconds, the bottom layer exposure should be 28 seconds. This helps ensure proper adhesion to the build plate.

What should I do if my prints are not sticking well to the build plate?

If your prints aren’t sticking well, you can try increasing the bottom layer exposure time by a few seconds. This helps ensure that the first few layers adhere properly to the build plate.

How can I determine the ideal exposure time for my resin if I don’t have pre-set values?

If you don't have pre-set exposure times, start with general guidelines (e.g., 3 seconds for monochrome printers, 12 seconds for non-monochrome printers) and use the Phrozen XP Finder to refine the exposure time. Test with small increments and observe the results.

What are the potential signs that my print is underexposed?

Signs of underexposure include missing text, faint lines, and weak or incomplete features. The print may also show less detail than expected.

What other factors besides exposure time should I consider for better prints?

Aside from exposure time, consider the support structures for your print, the lift speed (slowing it down can prevent failures with brittle resins), and maintaining a consistent room temperature of around 25°C for optimal resin curing.