Wash & Cure Station Accessories

A resin curing machine is a post-processing device used to fully cure the 3D-printed resin parts after they are removed from the printer. While LCD printers harden resin layer by layer during printing, the final parts often require additional curing to reach their maximum strength, stability, and surface finish.

The curing machine works by exposing the printed object to intense UV light from multiple angles, sometimes combined with heat or a rotating platform for even coverage. This process causes the remaining uncured resin on and inside the print to undergo further curing, making the part more durable and less prone to deformation or tackiness.

The wash and the cure stations simply post-process by combining two critical steps: cleaning uncured resin from prints and curing them under UV light. This ensures your models are clean, fully hardened, and ready for use. Using a dedicated washing and curing station improves efficiency, consistency, and safety compared to manual methods.

Yes, you can use a standalone resin curing station without any issues. Separating the washing and curing steps into dedicated devices allows for greater flexibility and control, as each stage can be optimized individually.

It also enables more efficient workflows—for example, while one part is curing, another can be washed—making it well-suited for users with higher throughput or specific post-processing needs.

When selecting a UV curing station, consider these industry-standard factors:

• Build Volume: Choose a station with a build volume at least 20-30% larger than your typical print size to ensure proper fit and even curing.
• UV Light Intensity: Look for a station with 405 nm wavelength UV LEDs, which is the standard for curing most UV resins. For enhanced curing performance, HeyGears curing stations feature dual UV wavelengths—365 nm for thorough surface curing and 405 nm for internal curing, ensuring a more complete and efficient final result.
• Rotation Feature: A rotating turntable ensures uniform exposure to UV light, especially for complex or detailed prints.
• Timer Settings: Opt for a station with adjustable timers (typically 1-30 minutes) to match the curing requirements of different resins.
• Safety Features: Ensure the station has UV shielding and safety interlocks to protect your eyes and skin during use.

By meeting these standards, you can choose a UV curing station that delivers reliable and efficient results for your resin 3D printing projects.

Curing time depends on the size and complexity of the print, as well as the UV light intensity of the machine. On average, small to medium-sized prints take between 2 to 10 minutes, while larger or more detailed models may require 15 to 30 minutes.

With the HeyGears resin cure machine, the process is even more streamlined. Our pre-processing software automatically matches the optimal curing time based on the selected material and model size.

Once slicing is complete, the print job—including curing parameters—can be sent directly to the curing station. This parameter-free workflow eliminates the guesswork of time and ensures consistent results, even for beginners.

To clean and maintain a resin wash and cure station, regularly empty and clean the washing container to remove resin residue. Wipe down the UV curing chamber to ensure it remains free of dust or debris. Check the UV lights periodically for any signs of wear and replace them as needed to maintain optimal performance.

Most wash and cure stations are designed to be compatible with resin prints from any resin 3D printer, regardless of the brand. However, ensure the station’s build volume can accommodate the size of your prints. Some stations may also include adapters or accessories for specific printer models.

Prints are fully cured when they feel hard and non-tacky to the touch. The curing time can vary based on the resin type and UV light intensity. Some curing stations include timers or automatic shutoff features to ensure prints are cured for the recommended duration.

Damage to printed parts during or after cleaning can result from several common issues. Here’s how to avoid them:

Removing Supports Before Cleaning

• Cause: Some parts are still fragile before curing, and removing supports before cleaning can cause breakage if the part is bumped or mishandled.
• Solution: It’s recommended to clean the parts with supports still attached. If possible, clean the entire build plate or use a protective frame with supports. Avoid removing supports and then cleaning many small parts individually.

Rough Handling During Cleaning

• Cause: Uncured resin prints are brittle and prone to damage if too much force is applied during handling.
• Solution: Handle parts gently during the cleaning process—support them from the base and avoid squeezing or applying pressure to delicate features.

Excessive Rotation Speed in the Washing Unit

• Cause: If the rotation speed is too high, printed parts can collide with the container and become damaged.
• Solution: Follow the recommended SOP settings: 160 rad/min with supports, and 100 rad/min without supports.

Over-Soaking in Solvent

• Cause: Prolonged exposure to cleaning solvents may degrade or dissolve fine features or thin walls.
• Solution: Do not soak parts for more than 10 minutes.

When cleaning water-washable resin, it is recommended to use running water for rinsing. Running water more effectively removes residual resin and other impurities, resulting in a cleaner surface and better overall cleaning results.