Required Supplies:
Formlabs:
- Spacer
Third-party:
- 2 mm hex driver
- Nitrile gloves
WHITE PAPER
Adding a spacer to the Form Wash (1st Generation) impeller
Adding a spacer to the Form Wash (1st Generation) impeller
The Form Wash agitates solvent using a magnetic impeller located at the bottom of its wash bucket. If the impeller is overcompressed onto its standoff, it may make a chattering noise as it spins during a wash cycle. Adding a spacer to the impeller can relieve that overcompression and resolve the issue.
Use this guide to add a spacer to the Form Wash impeller.
Estimated time: 10–15 minutes
DANGER:
Read and follow all safety instructions and warnings in the operator manual. Replacement with incorrect parts can lead to burns, shock, fire, or explosion. Dispose of all parts in accordance with local regulations.
Fire hazard. IPA is flammable. Keep containers closed, and keep out of the reach of children.
Preparing the workspace
Overview: Prepare the Form Wash and a dust-free workspace for adding a spacer to the impeller.
Step 1: Remove the wash bucket and inner lid
Turn the Form Wash knob to select Open on the display. Push the knob to confirm. The Form Wash raises the mount and basket out of the wash bucket, and opens the inner and outer lid.
Lift the wash bucket forward and upward to remove it from the base. Set the wash bucket on a clean, stable surface.
Lift the inner lid to remove it and set aside.
Step 2: Assemble the siphon pump
The Form Wash comes with a siphon pump, used to transfer solvent to and from the wash bucket. To assemble the siphon pump, screw the handle (A) into the rigid tube (B) of the siphon pump.
Step 3: Transfer used solvent to an empty container
Danger:
Always consult the safety data sheet (SDS) from the IPA supplier as the primary source of information. IPA is flammable and should be used and stored away from ignition sources. Store small quantities of IPA in appropriately labeled and sealed containers.
For optimal flow, elevate the source container—the wash bucket with used solvent—above the empty receiving container. Place the rigid tube in the source container and the flexible tube in the receiving container. To initiate flow, squeeze the handle several times, then hold. Gradually release the handle when the solvent begins flowing through the flexible tube.
Removing the impeller screw
Overview: Locate the impeller and remove its retaining screw.
Step 1: Locate the impeller
Locate the impeller in the wash bucket. The impeller is positioned at the bottom of the bucket. It is fixed by one screw with a washer in the center.
Step 2: Unscrew the impeller
Using a 2 mm hex driver, unscrew the retaining screw holding the impeller in place. Remove the screw, washer, and impeller. Set the screw and washer aside for reinstallation. Dispose of the old impeller with household waste once dry.
Installing the spacer
Overview: Add a spacer to the impeller screw and reinstall the screw.
Step 1: Place the washer and spacer on the screw
Place the washer back on the screw, followed by the spacer. The spacer offsets the washer from the top of the impeller.
Step 2: Reinstall the impeller screw
Align the screw with the screw hole in the impeller and thread it in place. Tighten the screw using a 2 mm hex driver, being careful not to overtighten and strip the plastic threads in the wash bucket. Ensure that the impeller is free to spin.
If the impeller’s rotation is still constrained, remove the screw and add another spacer. If necessary, suitable spacers are available for purchase from hardware retailers, such as this example from McMaster-Carr.
- Thickness: 0.3 mm (0.012 in)
- Inner diameter: 3.2 mm (0.125 in)
- Outer diameter:4.8 mm (0.1875 in)
Finalizing the repair
Overview: After installing the spacer, reassemble and refill the Form Wash and perform final checks.
Step 1: Refill the wash bucket
Use the siphon pump to refill the wash bucket between the minimum and maximum fill lines.
Step 2: Reinstall the inner lid
Align the front edge of the inner lid with the wash bucket’s edge and lower the inner lid directly into the top of the wash bucket.
Step 3: Reinsert the wash bucket
Insert the wash bucket into the Form Wash.
Step 4: Start a wash cycle
Turn the knob to navigate the display menu and set the Time. Push the knob to select or confirm. Select Start. Check to see that the wash cycle starts normally and that the Form Wash does not make any unusual noises.