Having a consistent print quality means you’re doing everything right. However, when you are using a resin printer, you rarely think about parts like the resin vat film, which heavily affects how your prints are going to turn out.
When print goes wrong, we mostly think that something is wrong with your 3D printer, maybe it’s the exposure settings or the resin type, but sometimes, it’s much deeper than that. The problem could be an aging or damaged release film, which acts like a time bomb to destroy your prints.
Below are the five clear signs that it’s time for you to replace your resin vat film, and a smart way to do it without the hassle of always replacing it.
5. Print Failures Even in Reliable Settings
When you have settings like the exposure right and everything was fine for weeks with these settings, even then, the print starts failing, that’s a huge red flag. Moreover, print failure in this sense would most likely be an issue of resin vat film.
Some of the common issues here include prints not sticking to the build plate. Moreover, the layers are partially cured, or the bases are soft. Another big issue is when there’s a sudden drop in adhesion, marking some of the most negative changes, all pointing towards a film that must be replaced.
If you have checked changes in resin, temperature, and exposure time, then your film must be blamed. A worn or stretched film can also lose its even surface tension, causing unpredictable cure layers and print errors.
4. Deformation and Bulging of the Film
Resin vat films must stay flat, but after extended use with high-temperature resins or large prints, the film can wrap, bulge, and lose its tightness. Some resin vats are better in the sense that they provide constant tension.
But deformation can come in a lot of ways. For example, while printing, it can make the drum sound. Moreover, the film can feel soft or saggy when it is tapped, and lastly, when you finally print using a deformed film, it will give you a result with uneven layer lines.
When there’s loose film, the bottom layers are uneven. This issue worsens over time, resulting in your print. So, when you see tension loss, you should consider replacing your film.
3. Surface Scratching and Fogging
PFA and FEP release film is the barrier between UV light and liquid resin. However, after extended use, even normal usage will cause scratches and clouds, making it often easy to overlook.
However, these scratches then scatter the UV light during the exposure, resulting in a plethora of issues like uneven curing, poor print detail, and surface artifacts on the prints. So, when you notice that there’s fogginess or clouded areas on the film, especially in the center, it’s time to replace it.
Here’s a foolproof method of how to understand if your Resin Vat film needs a replacement:
- Shine a flashlight through an empty vat.
- If the light scatters or diffuses more than usual, it’s clear that you need a replacement.
- This means that the film is most likely damaged or scratched.
After this, you can replace your vat film, specifically with something that won’t cause any issues in the long run.
2. Post Cleaning Dilemma
A lot of 3D printer users clean and reuse their FEP or PFA film, which is quite economical. However, repeated cleaning can cause a plethora of issues like:
- Tension loss and stretching.
- Micro-tears when you wipe using certain cleaning products (alcohol wiping)
- Decreased optical clarity makes it harder for UV rays to pass properly.
If you have removed and cleaned the film more than once, then it is the perfect time to replace it. You will not only save time but also avoid print failures in the long run.
1. Resin Leakage or Seepage Between the Film
This one is probably the most serious sign that you should change the film. If there’s sticky resin under the vat or around the edges, it is possible that your release film is not sealed. This could mean that there are micro-tears. Sometimes these tears aren’t even visible to the naked eye.
The other issue could be worn-out seals around the bolt holes, causing seepage from the edges. This could also happen when you over-tighten the screws during previous installs. If you have any of these issues, you are not only risking ruining your printer but also damaging your LCD panel permanently.
This is the perfect sign that you must replace the film. Stop printing and start inspecting your film.
Final Verdict: A Better Way to Replace Vat Film
Replacing the resin vat film can be annoying, but there’s a smart way that won’t require dozens of minutes of surgical procedure. That’s where the Chitu Systems Hoopat Quick Release Vat comes in.
With this Vat, you get a lot of benefits, including:
- Screw Free Design: Just swap your film in 30 seconds and save your time.
- Consistent Tension: No need to worry about loose films as Hoopat Resin Vat can apply equal pressure on all sides, giving a consistent and flawless printing experience.
- Effortless Installation: No need to get the vat trimmed around the edges after installation.
- All-Metal Construction: Built to last as there would be no warping or cracking under pressure or heat.
If you are tired and want a hassle-free vat film replacement, then choosing Hoopat Quick Release Vat would be the perfect option for you.
Moreover, if you want more 3D printer accessories, you should visit Chitu Systems!
