What is a Resin 3D Printer?

Currently interested in treating yourself to a Resin 3D printer? You’re not the only one! If you’ve already familiarized yourself with the 3D printing world, then we’re sure that you’ll agree with us when we say that, when it comes to 3D printers – there’s plenty of different variations to choose from.

One of those variations is something that is called a Resin 3D Printer, and these printers are extremely popular simply due to the fact that they are relatively easy to use and require little know-how to use, are typically placed on the lower end of the price spectrum and can be used to create stunning resin designs.

What is a Resin 3D Printer?

What more could you want?

So, if you’re currently in the market to treat yourself to a new 3D printer but you’re not too sure of what to expect from deciding to take the plunge and invest in a Resin 3D printer, then rest assured that you have clicked on the right article for you!

Below, we are going to be talking you through what a Resin 3D Printer is, as well as what you can expect to get from it. Read on.

What is a Resin 3D Printer?

Before we delve any deeper into this article, we are first going to be taking the time to talk you through what a Resin 3D Printer is, as this will help you to decide whether or not it is the right investment for you.

To cut a long story short, a Resin 3D printer is generally a type of 3D printing machine that is specifically and carefully designed to be able to hold a photosensitive liquid resin. More often than not, a 3D resin printer will be able to create plastic 3D resin models by using a UV LED light beam that will be able to harden the liquid resin layer after layer and use precise measurements to create the resin plastic 3D model.

Typically, the type of technology used by Resin 3D Printers is called SLA, which stands for Stereolithography. This is a very advanced type of technology that will be able to create very precise and intricate 3D resin models up to 0.01mm of layer height. Impressive or what?

Whether you want to open up your very own Resin 3D printing business or you would like to start up a new hobby in your spare time, then you won’t regret making an investment in a Resin 3D Printer.

To follow, it is also worth noting that there you will usually have two different kinds of Resin 3D Printers that you will be able to choose from.

The first most common type of Resin 3D Printer that you will have the option to purchase is something that is known as a filament 3D printer and is most typically referred to as either FFF or FDM printers. This type of 3D printer is most commonly used by hobbyists.

The other type of 3D printer that you will be able to choose from is something that is known as an SLA 3D printer (that is also sometimes referred to as an MSLA 3D printer) and is most commonly used for creating models for industrial businesses, architect projects and for engineering purposes.

What are the Main Features of a Resin 3D Printer?

What is a Resin 3D Printer?

So, now that we have taken the time to read through what the main features of a Resin 3D printer are, we are now going to be talking you through what you can actually expect to get from your 3D printer… if you decide to treat yourself to one, that is!

Below, we’re going to be breaking down some of the main components that you can typically expect to find in a 3D printer so that you can make a more well-informed decision as to whether or not a 3D printer is right for you.

Let’s take a closer look at them below:

  • Display touchscreen: One of the most common features that you can expect to get from a 3D printer is that it will come with a digital touch screen. This is a key component of all kinds of 3D printers (regardless of their price points) as the digital touchscreen will be the main area of the printer where you will be able to upload and send your 3D resin designs to print.
  • USB connectivity: The next common type of feature you can expect to get from your 3D printer is that it will come with the option of USB connectivity. This will allow you to send your designs to the printer, where you will then be able to take over and send them to print via the touchscreen.
  • Resin vat: This is essential and will allow you to add the liquid resin so that it can be used to print the model designs.
  • FEP film: This is another necessary aspect of a 3D printer and will allow you to successfully print your designs with ease.
  • UV acrylic lid: The acrylic lid is another integral aspect of the 3D printer design, and will allow you to successfully harness light so that the resin can be layered in order to successfully complete the design that you are wanting to print with the 3D printer.
  • Build plate and linear rails: These are all necessary aspects of your 3D printer design and will be able to allow for the essential Z movement seen across all 3D printers. The build plate will stabilize and add durability while all of your 3D printing resin models are being printed and made into a design.
  • UV LCD screen: The UV LCD screen ties in closely to the UV acrylic lid, and will be able to ensure that your eyes stay safe while you are using the 3D printer.

Final Thoughts

There we have it, you made it to the end! After reading through our guide above, we’re hoping that you now have a much better understanding of what a resin printer is, and how it differs from other types of popular printers on the market – such as a filament printer.

To summarise everything we’ve said above, filament printers stand apart from the crowd because they are able to create perfectly smooth prints (unlike other printers which can leave a rough texture), are compatible with a variety of different materials, and are known for being one of the fastest prototype printing methods.

Regardless of whether you’re a hobbyist or you’re simply looking to start your own craft business, you’ll love adding a resin printer to your workspace! Thanks for reading.

Michael Moore