Resin Printing - Things You Should Know!

The 3d MakerPlace doesn't currently sell resin or resin printers.  We do have a resin printer that we can use to make parts for customers.

Why don't we currently sell resin?  We feel that the current generation of resins, for the most part, are not safe for home use.  If you are currently printing in resin, or considering purchasing a resin printer here are some things to know about the safety of resin printing:

Read AND understand the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for EVERY resin you purchase/use.  Each will have it's own recommendations/requirements for working safely with the resin.  Do NOT deviate from the minimum requirements put in place by the manufacturer.  This means following all Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) requirements and following all guidelines for disposal of the resin.  Many resins require a well ventilated work area and a respirator to be worn.  It's important, when wearing a respirator, you know how to size it and use it properly.  Generally, when working with harmful chemicals 6 air changeovers per hour is recommended, which goes way avove the standard HVAC or fan in a window solution.  To calculate air changeovers you need to calculate the cubic volume of the room you are working in (and any other attached space that can't be blocked off).  Multiple that cubic volume by 6 and then find an exhaust fan that can move that value of Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM).  So, if you are working in a 10' x 10' x 8' room with a door that seals adequately your cubic feet would be 10x10x8 = 800 cubic feet.  For the 6 air changeovers you would multiple 800 x 6 for 4,800 CFM.  This exhaust should exit the building in an area that is not typically utilized by people/pets.  

Some people will use fancy/expensive filters and recirculate the air in to their work space.  This is not something that is recommended to do UNLESS you have the equipment to monitor air quality - exhausting the air/contaminates out of the work space is the only safe way to handle fumes unless you have the equipment in place to continuously monitor air quality for the specific toxins in the resin.

When it comes to disposing of resins many have very specific instructions.  I have yet to come across a resin that can legally be disposed off down a drain.  Many resins have to be disposed of as hazardous materials which can get expensive.  This is another reason why it's important to understand the materials you will be working with before you purchase them!

Resin printing is a lot of fun and very satisfying but it's important to understand all the risks before you get started!
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