Safety with the Formlabs Fast Cure
Safety with the Formlabs Fast Cure
This article provides answers to the most common questions that Formlabs customers ask about safety when using the Formlabs Fast Cure and related SLA ecosystem. Safety data sheets should be used in safety assessments, whereas this article can be used to quickly answer the questions about the top safety concerns associated with post-curing SLA printed parts and how the Fast Cure is designed to ensure a safe and easy-to-use SLA 3D printing experience.
What is the required and recommended PPE for use with the Fast Cure?
Resin may cause skin irritation or an allergic skin reaction. Wear gloves when handling liquid resin or resin-coated surfaces. Wash skin with plenty of soap and water. Do not wash skin with products containing alcohol, like hand sanitizer, or any other solvents.
The post-curing chamber can reach temperatures of up to 160 ℃ (320 ℉) after extended cycles at maximum LED intensity. Printed parts and the turntable tray may be hot after post-curing. To avoid burns, allow parts to cool before removing or wear heat-resistant gloves.
What features does the Fast Cure offer to help ensure safety?
Fast Cure post-curing chambers have several features that help to mitigate possible working hazards. Some of the features that help to ensure a safe usage experience include:
- The Fast Cure has an interlock to ensure that UV LEDs turn off when the door is opened during or immediately after a post-cure cycle.
- The three UV LED modules are replaceable, ensuring consistent post-curing.
- Reminders after each cycle prompt you to let the unit cool before starting a new post-cure cycle.
Where can I find more information on safe handling of SLA resins?
The safety data sheet for each material provides detailed information on safe handling instructions for SLA resins. Formlabs safety data sheets can be found at https://formlabs.com/materials/#data-sheets
What are best practices to avoid damaging hardware or printed parts during use?
- When inserting the turntable tray, make sure that the bumps on the turntable engage with the holes in the turntable tray.
- Allow the post-curing chamber to cool before starting a new post-cure cycle, as elevated temperatures may affect the mechanical properties of your printed parts. Formlabs recommends letting the Fast Cure cool for 10 minutes between cycles.
- High temperatures due to prolonged post-cure cycles may temporarily deform the door. As noted above, allow the unit to cool between cycles for best results.
- After powering the unit off, wait at least five seconds before powering it on again.