3D SLA Printing with the Formlabs 2 #
Due to the intricacies of the printing process these machines are currently only operable by a member of staff. You can submit a job to our Bureau Service. If your project requires this functionality - please approach a lab technician when you have made yourself familiar with the resources below and prepared one 3D print with PreForm
Link to 3D Print Bureau Service
Getting Started #
| Tools & Things | |
|---|---|
| Formlabs Form 4 | This is only operated by staff. |
| Formlabs Form 2 | This is only operated by staff. |
| Finish Kit | This is only operated by staff. |
| Cure Box | Nice little box with UV light |
| PreForm | Software to prepare your 3D model to upload to the Formlabs printer |
| Meshmixer | Software to hollow your 3D model |
Times below gives you a idea about how long the progress of 3D printing with the Formlabs could be. Keep in mind, first times are always the longest to learn all the tools and software
| Time | |
|---|---|
| Research | Around 4 hours self research |
| Preparing Model with PreForm | around 30 min |
| Meshmixer hollowing Model | 30-45 min |
| Set up printer | 15 min |
| Wash | Dependant on Material |
| Cure | Dependant on Material |
Research: #
Read the following guides to become familiar with the use of Formlabs 2 and SLA 3D printing.
Must reads: #
Starting a print(SLA), this will give a good overview of all the steps.
Select ‘Form 2’ as your printer with ‘Clear V4’ material
Additional: #
- Information on different Materials
- Formlabs excellent support resources
3D Model preparation #
Basics #
Prepare your model with the PreForm software. Read about model orientation here: model orientation best practices for SLA printing
Solid structures #
Solid structures will waste a lot of resin and make the print more expensive. Formlabs recommends hollowing out your model and then using PreForm to create internal supports.
Use the following software to make your 3D model hollow: Meshmixer Download
Read this guide to hollow your 3D print
Most printed models will be strong enough when printed hollow, however, you could research the option to fill it with a material, such as epoxy.
Preparing for printing #
- Approach a HatchLabs technician to discuss your print. The member of staff will ask several questions before uploading your file.
- Please bring your computer to show the technicians your PreForm setup with the model orientated and discuss any printing errors.
Washing #
Note this can only be carried out by HatchLabs technicians!
Most models have to be cleaned in two baths of IPA for around 10 minutes each. For smaller 3D prints, this can be shorter: SLA basic finishing steps
Curing #
- Always double check the material cure time recommendation: cure time information
- See here for post-curing prints best practices including how to cure large, long, thick, thin, or densely-supported parts
Removing Support structures #
- Formlabs advice on removing supports: advanced support removal techniques
- Long form article from ALL3DP on removing both SLA and FDM supports 3D Print Support: How to Remove Hard Supports from 3D Prints