Properly storing printer resin is crucial for maintaining its quality and preventing premature curing. The key involves protecting it from light and temperature fluctuations.
Printer resin is best stored in its original, opaque container, kept in a dark, cool location away from direct sunlight or heat sources. For resin already in a printer's tank, it should be stored in a protective case.
Storing Printer Resin Tanks
When resin is loaded into a tank within your printer, it remains susceptible to ambient light, which can cause it to begin curing prematurely. To prevent this:
- Always store resin tanks in their cases to prevent ambient light from curing the liquid resin during storage.
- If your printer system uses cartridges along with tanks, be mindful of the process when changing them. As the reference states, when changing resin types, always change both the tank and the cartridge.
- To avoid spills inside the printer, remove the cartridge before removing the tank to prevent the cartridge valve from dripping resin into the printer interior.
Storing the tank in its opaque case shields the resin from UV and visible light, preserving its liquid state and readiness for printing.
Storing Unused Resin Bottles
Unopened or partially used bottles of liquid resin require similar care to prevent degradation:
- Keep Bottles Sealed: Ensure the cap is tightly closed to prevent air exposure, contamination, and solvent evaporation (which can change the resin's viscosity and properties).
- Avoid Light: Store bottles in a dark place. Resin is photo-reactive, meaning light (especially UV) will cure it. Most resin is sold in opaque bottles for this reason.
- Control Temperature: Store resin at room temperature, typically between 15°C and 25°C (60°F - 77°F). Extreme heat can accelerate chemical reactions and degrade the resin, while extreme cold can increase viscosity and affect print quality. Avoid storing it in garages or areas with wide temperature swings.
- Original Packaging: Using the original bottle is best as it's designed to protect the resin from light.
Practical Tips for Resin Storage & Handling
Here are a few practical tips:
- Shake Before Use: Even when stored correctly, pigments and components can settle. Gently shake or agitate the resin bottle before pouring it into the tank.
- Filter Used Resin: If returning unused resin from a tank back into a bottle, always filter it through a mesh filter to remove any cured bits or debris.
- Monitor Shelf Life: Resin has a shelf life, usually indicated by an expiration date. While it might last longer, quality can degrade over time, especially if stored improperly.
Proper storage ensures your resin remains in optimal condition, leading to more successful and higher-quality 3D prints.
Summary Table: Resin Storage Best Practices
| Storage Location | Key Action | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Resin Tank | Store in protective case | Prevent ambient light curing |
| Resin Bottles | Keep sealed and in dark place | Prevent light curing, contamination, drying |
| All Resin | Store at room temperature | Maintain optimal viscosity & chemistry |
By following these guidelines, you can maximize the lifespan and performance of your printer resin.
