The Build Platform 2L enables a quick and controlled release of printed parts from the build platform, allowing for an easier and more reliable post-processing workflow.

When using the Build Platform 2L, make sure that both the build platform and your models are properly prepared before printing. Ensure that the build platform is clean and properly assembled. Certain part orientations and support options release more easily from the build platform than others, so set up your print with this in mind.

For the best print results:

• Ensure the print surface is clean and properly aligned
• Orient models perpendicular to the front of the build platform
• Overlap rafts on small prints
• Avoid mini-rafts

The Build Platform 2L is made of two components: the build platform body and the print surface. The print surface is attached to the build platform body with magnets positioned within the alignment channels and throughout the top surface of the build platform body. The print surface bends when you push the part release paddles inwards, causing printed parts to release for easier post-processing.

• The Build Platform 2L is approved for use with Formlabs resins for biocompatible applications. Always follow the Instructions for Use when using Formlabs resins to produce biocompatible parts. For full compliance with biocompatibility requirements, the Build Platform 2L should not be used with any other resins.
• The Build Platform 2L is not compatible with Durable Resin, Flexible 80A Resin, and Elastic 50A Resin. Use the standard build platform for these resins.
• If you experience issues with print reliability, fine-tune the Z-axis of your printer.

Before printing with the Build Platform 2L:

1. Inspect the build platform and make sure that it is clean and dry.
2. Check that the print surface is flat and properly aligned with the build platform body.
3. Actuate the part release tabs closest to you and check that the two alignment rods are fully seated in their respective alignment channels.

Step 1: Orient models perpendicular to the front of the build platform

Align the long edge of the models perpendicular to the bend axis of the build platform so that parts are more likely to release. Place models perpendicular to the front of the build scene for easy part removal as the surface flexes.

Step 2: Overlap support rafts on smaller parts

Parts that are three centimeters at their longest point may be too small to completely release from the build platform when the surface flexes. Place these models close together in PreForm so that their rafts overlap and create a larger surface area. If you are using the automatic layout tools in PreForm, check the Overlap Rafts box in the Layout window.

Step 3: Print parts with large flat surfaces directly on the build platform

Printing parts directly on the build platform can reduce print time and resin consumption, as well as simplifying post-processing steps.

The Build Platform 2L’s print surface bends, releasing printed parts for post-processing. Released parts may separate entirely from the build platform or remain partially adhered due to liquid resin, allowing them to be removed by hand.

Remove the build platform from the printer and wash the attached parts using your solvent of choice.

If parts remain on the build platform, use a part removal tool or scraper to manually remove them or pull them off with a gloved hand.

Clean the print surface if you plan to print again with the same resin, or thoroughly clean the entire Build Platform 2L to completely remove all traces of resin before printing with a different material.

Store the build platform inside the printer or somewhere out of direct sunlight.

Other removal methods may be effective, depending on your part geometry. Experiment to find the method that works best for your parts and your workflow.

Non-adherence

When printing solid rectangular parts, the print surface may flex or decouple due to the internal stresses of the printing process. If this occurs, do not print the part directly on the build platform. Add support rafts to prevent the part from decoupling from the Build Platform 2L during the printing process.

Warped parts

Printing large parts directly on the build platform surface near the short edges may cause warping. If this occurs, do not print the part directly on the build platform. Add support rafts and reorient the part to prevent warping.

Mixer decoupling

The Build Platform 2L print surface attaches to the build platform body using magnets positioned within the alignment channels and throughout the surface of the build platform body.

If the printer experiences a Mixer Error due to a high volume of resin or particularly viscous resins like Rigid 10K or BioMed Clear, the magnets in the build platform may pick up the decoupled mixer. The printer pauses the print when this happens and displays an error message.

If the printer experiences mixer decoupling when printing with the Build Platform 2L, follow these steps:

1. Mix the resin well prior to printing.
2. Update the printer’s firmware to the latest version.
3. Remove the build platform and inspect it for cured resin or other debris.
4. Remove the resin tank and place it in its case.
5. Reseat the mixer.
6. Using the tank tool, inspect the resin tank film for cured resin or other debris. If you find any cured resin, remove it using the tank tool.

7. Reinsert the resin tank and build platform.
8. On the printer touchscreen, tap the gear icon. The Settings screen appears.
9. Tap Maintenance. The Maintenance screen appears.
10. Tap Calibration. The Calibration screen appears.
11. Tap Calibrate Tank Mixer Sensor and follow the onscreen prompts to calibrate the tank mixer sensor.

12. Restart the print.