When it comes to resin 3D printing, one of the biggest hurdles is post-processing. Cleaning off excess resin and curing the print can be a hassle. That’s where resin wash & cure stations come in to save the day! These nifty devices streamline the process, making your life easier and your prints even better.

In this guide, we’re counting down the Top 10 Resin Wash & Cure Stations that you need in 2024. Ready to step up your 3D printing game? Let’s dive in!

What Are Resin Wash & Cure Stations?

If you’re not familiar with resin wash & cure stations, they’re essentially two machines in one. They first wash your newly printed object, removing uncured resin that’s left on the surface. Then, they cure the object with UV light, hardening the resin to give it the durability it needs.

These stations are game-changers for anyone using SLA or DLP 3D printers, taking the mess out of the equation while improving print quality. But how do you know which one to choose? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered!

Why Proper Post-Processing is Key to High-Quality Prints

Imagine baking a cake and skipping the icing—sure, it’s still edible, but it’s not as satisfying. Post-processing your resin prints is kind of like that. Without it, your prints will be sticky, messy, and not fully cured. But a resin wash & cure station can ensure that your prints are not only clean but also durable and ready for use.

Benefits of Using a Resin Wash & Cure Station

Before we jump into the top 10 list, let’s talk about why you need one of these stations:

• Cleaner Prints: Say goodbye to sticky residue! These stations get into every nook and cranny, ensuring your prints come out spotless.
• Faster Post-Processing: Manually cleaning and curing can take hours. With these stations, it’s all done in a fraction of the time.
• Improved Durability: Proper curing hardens your prints, making them more robust and long-lasting.
• Convenience: Let’s face it—who wants to manually wash and cure every single print? These stations are an all-in-one solution.

Top 10 Resin Wash & Cure Stations

1. Anycubic Wash & Cure Plus

The Anycubic Wash & Cure Plus is one of the most popular choices for resin printing enthusiasts. It features a large washing container and a powerful curing light to ensure thorough post-processing.

• Highlights: Large washing capacity, 360-degree curing, user-friendly interface.

2. Elegoo Mercury Plus 2.0

Elegoo is a household name in the 3D printing world, and their Mercury Plus 2.0 doesn’t disappoint. This station provides strong washing and even curing to give your prints a flawless finish.

• Highlights: Affordable, highly efficient, dual-purpose machine.

3. Creality UW-02 Wash & Cure Station

Known for making some of the best 3D printers, Creality’s UW-02 offers a robust and easy-to-use wash & cure solution.

• Highlights: Adjustable time settings, large container, powerful UV lights.

4. Phrozen Cure V2

Phrozen’s Cure V2 is specifically designed for high-precision resin prints. It’s compact, efficient, and does the job in record time.

• Highlights: Compact size, efficient curing, built-in safety features.

5. Voxelab Proxima 6.0 Wash & Cure Station

This station is known for its strong UV curing lights and precise washing system, making it a great choice for professionals and hobbyists alike.

• Highlights: Precise curing, strong washing power, compact design.

6. Longer Orange 30 Wash & Cure Station

If you’re looking for an affordable yet powerful solution, the Longer Orange 30 delivers reliable performance at a great price.

• Highlights: Budget-friendly, efficient cleaning, easy to operate.

7. Creality UW-01 Wash & Cure Machine

Another hit from Creality, the UW-01 offers powerful UV curing and efficient cleaning in a simple, compact design.

• Highlights: Compact size, strong cleaning and curing, user-friendly.

8. Elegoo Mercury X Bundle

The Mercury X is an all-in-one bundle that comes with separate washing and curing units. It’s ideal for users who want to take control of each step of the post-processing.

• Highlights: Separate wash and cure stations, strong UV lights, large wash volume.

9. QIDI Tech S-Box Wash & Cure Station

QIDI Tech is known for producing high-quality, durable products, and their S-Box Wash & Cure Station is no exception.

• Highlights: High build quality, efficient post-processing, large capacity.

10. Anycubic Wash & Cure Machine 2.0

This compact and affordable wash & cure station is ideal for those who want a reliable, budget-friendly option without compromising on quality.

• Highlights: Compact size, affordable, strong UV curing.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Resin Wash & Cure Station

With so many options out there, how do you know which one is right for you? Here are some key factors to consider:

• Size of the Washing/Curing Area: Make sure the station is big enough to fit your typical prints.
• Curing Power: The stronger the UV light, the faster and more even your curing will be.
• Ease of Use: Look for intuitive controls and preset functions to save time.
• Budget: Some stations offer more advanced features, but if you’re just starting, a budget-friendly option may be your best bet.

Pro Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Resin Wash & Cure Station

1. Use Clean Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA): Changing out your IPA regularly ensures the best wash results.
2. Don’t Overload the Wash Container: Washing too many prints at once can lead to uneven cleaning.
3. Adjust the Curing Time Based on Resin Type: Some resins require longer curing times than others.
4. Regular Maintenance is Key: Clean the machine and replace the IPA to keep things running smoothly.

Conclusion

Resin wash & cure stations are a must-have for anyone serious about resin 3D printing. With options for every budget and experience level, they take the hassle out of post-processing and deliver clean, fully cured prints every time.

Whether you’re a hobbyist or professional, investing in a high-quality resin wash & cure station will take your prints to the next level. Now the question is: which one will you choose?

FAQs

1. Can I use a wash & cure station for all types of resin?
Yes, most wash & cure stations are compatible with all types of resin, but check the manufacturer’s guidelines.
2. How often should I clean the wash & cure station?
It’s a good idea to clean your station after every few uses, depending on how often you print.
3. Can a wash & cure station replace manual cleaning entirely?
Yes, these stations are designed to handle both washing and curing automatically, but occasional manual cleaning of the station is needed.
4. Is it possible to cure objects too much?
Yes, over-curing can lead to brittle prints, so be sure to follow the resin manufacturer’s recommendations.
5. Are wash & cure stations compatible with all 3D printers?
Yes, most stations work independently of your printer, but always double-check compatibility with your resin type.