Note:
Due to the effect of tripropylene glycol monomethyl ether (TPM) on resins, we recommend using isopropyl alcohol (IPA) for washing millifluidic and microfluidic channels.
WHITE PAPER
Cleaning internal cavities and channels
Cleaning internal cavities and channels
During a print, resin can become trapped in small cavities. This is especially prevalent when printing internal channels like those found in millifluidic and microfluidic geometries.
Flushing out the channels with a syringe filled with fresh isopropyl alcohol (IPA, 90% or higher) removes trapped resin. Follow up with an empty syringe to push air through the channels to remove any remaining residue.
Washing millifluidic and microfluidic geometries
Step 1: Place build platform on jig
After removing the build platform from the printer, place the build platform on the jig included in the Finish Kit.
Step 2: Flush out channels with a syringe and fresh IPA
Fill a syringe with fresh IPA and wash out the channels with the syringe.
Step 3: Wash parts for 10 minutes
Leave parts attached to the build platform to avoid unnecessary exposure to light. Even minimal exposure can cause channels to seal up very quickly.
Wash parts for 10 minutes in fresh IPA. For more information on washing prints, refer to the article Best practices for washing prints.
Step 4: Repeat wash with a syringe and fresh IPA
Fill a syringe with fresh IPA and flush and thoroughly clean the channels one more time. Allow at least 50 mL of IPA to flow through channels that have a diameter of less than 1 mm.
Step 5: Wash for another 10 minutes
Remove parts from the build platform and wash parts for another 10 minutes in fresh IPA.
Notice:
When using the Form Wash, Form Wash L, or other automated part washing solution, do not wash loose parts in the wash bucket without the basket. This damages printed parts, creates noise, and may interfere with the agitation of the solvent or damage the machine.
Step 6: Push air through channels with empty syringe
Push air through the cleaned channels with an empty syringe until the channel is visibly clear and no IPA remains inside. Alternatively, use compressed air to remove remaining residue from the channels.
Additional resources