Synthetic resins are one of the most popular materials used in 3D printing. Normally, the model is never finished after the actual printing process when using any type of resin. It has to be washed and post-treated for an even curing. Both post-processing activities are highly recommended by experts. Post-processing has been made a tad easier by devices like Anycubic Wash and Cure.
As of now, there are 2 versions of the Anycubic Wash and Cure machine; the original and the 2.0. The 2.0 version stands out for making post-processing less complicated as everything is automated. It allows you to clean your prints while hardening them at the same time. What’s more, the machine comes with everything you need to wash and cure your prints. In this Anycubic Wash and Cure review, we delve deeper into the specs and capabilities of the machine. Read on to find out if it’s exactly what you are looking for.
The Anycubic Wash and Cure is an all-in-one device that makes the post-processing of 3D printed models super-easy and fast. It has vast compatibility and can work with a plethora of LCD/UV/DLP 3D printers, including photon, Mars, Photon S, and Photon Zero, among others. In terms of simplicity and productivity, the Anycubic Wash and Cure machine comes second to none. Here are some of the machine’s critical features that make it such a high performer.
Post-processing is just as tedious as the printing process, but if you can get the entire process done in one machine, it becomes much easier and saves your time. Normally, washing and curing are two separate processes that require extra tubs for washing and different UV light systems. The Anycubic Wash and Cure machine comes with everything you would need to finish your post-processing activities in one go. You would never have to change the model from one container to another, and of course, you will save a lot of space. Plus, it is incredibly easy to use. Everything runs automatically, so you only need to press a few buttons to get things done.
Moreover, the Anycubic Wash and Cure is compatible with myriad printers. This can be a hit or miss because of the issues with the build-plate attachment. The good news is you can wash and cure on virtually any model with the basket.
The Anycubic Wash and Cure comes in a functional design that resembles that of the popular Mono X printer. This is because it was designed to work with the resin printer as an add-on. It features a yellow transparent cover and a metallic base. On its front is a simple LED screen that displays the curing time.
There is a selection button on the left side of the screen that allows you to swap between the wash and cure cycles. On the right side of the screen is a knob that allows you to set the time for the wash or cure cycle. You can also use it to stop both processes.
The backside of the machine has an On/Off switch and an optical cover sensor that detects when the cover is on or not. If the yellow transparent cover is off the machine, the cover sensor will detect, and the curing process will stop.
The 8.5 liters washing tub is also part of the machine’s design. It requires a good amount of IPA or whichever cleaning fluid you choose to use. On its bottom is a black plastic propeller that stirs the cleaning solution. It is set in motion by the magnets located at the bottom of the unit.
The washing tank also has a cover that clips in place hermetically and prevents the cleaning fluid from evaporating or losing its smell.
The Anycubic Wash and Cure is compatible with many printers, which can be a hit or miss. It’s a hit because obviously, you will be able to work with different kinds of printers and a miss because of the build plate attachment. The build-plate support bracket doesn’t come with a proprietary mounting solution. This means you can only use it with a 3Dprinter that has a similar sized build plate.
The best news is that you can wash and cure any type of model with the basket that the machine comes with.
The Anycubic Wash and Cure is a large machine and is highly preferred for its ability to accommodate most prints. The largest 3D model that you can wash in the machine measures 4.72” (L) x 6.85” (W) x 6.49” (H). You would have to take it off the printer’s platform and submerge it in the wash tank to be able to wash.
The largest model you can cure on the machine should be 5.5” (D) x 6.49” (H). These dimensions are quite large, giving you the chance to wash and cure different sized 3D prints.
UV lighting is essential when curing a 3D model Trusted Source The Benefits of UV Curing in 3D Modelling and Prototyping Design teams test the aerodynamics of a Formula 1 car by putting a prototype in a wind tunnel… www.automation.com . The Anycubic Wash and Cure machine features a large metallic pillar that has LED lights right to the top of the machine. You can angle the last 8cm of the LED pillar at 45 degrees to help cure the top sides of the print evenly.
The UV LED lights are 12 in total, and they have a wavelength of 405nm. Their service life is about 20,000 hours, and they are evenly distributed to help achieve a uniform cure around resin models.
The material quality of your 3D model after washing and curing is dependent on the slow rotational movement of the model with the base plate under strong UV lighting. The Anycubic Wash and Cure machine has a rotating platform that facilitates this rotation. After securely clamping your model on the rotating platform, it will rotate at a low speed to ensure all sides are reached uniformly.
The Anycubic Wash and Cure doesn’t produce any irritating noise. The only noise you will get is generated by the IPA swirl inside the container and the motor whenever the plastic propeller accelerates and decelerates. The noise is bearable; you can even wash and cure your models late in the night or very early in the morning when everyone is asleep.
Your safety should always come first. Anycubic made the machine with user safety in mind. Since UV light is harmful Trusted Source How Does Ultraviolet Light Damage Your Eyes? - Nevada Eye Physicians How Does Ultraviolet Light Damage Your Eyes?. Nevada Eye Physicians are the leading providers of eye care, LASIK, and cataract surgery in the greater Las Vegas area. nevadaeyephysicians.com to the eyes and skin, the machine features an automatic pause function that pauses the UV radiation whenever you open the machine’s lid.
The Anycubic Wash and Cure measures 8.86” (L) x 8.66” (W) x 14.88” (H). You will need ample space on your desk to accommodate it. On the bright side, the machine’s large size allows it to accommodate a large wash container measuring 4.7 by 2.9 by 6.5 inches. This is large enough for washing most prints.
Further, you can cure 3D models as big as 5.5 inches wide and 6.5 inches tall. As for the weight, some users may find the Anycubic Wash and Cure a bit hefty, but it wouldn’t break your back. It weighs 8.2 pounds. Compared to other machines, its weight is pretty average.
This is one of the best attributes of this machine. Since it is partially automated, using it is such a breeze. There are 2 buttons that you can easily press for the wash and cure functions.
There’s also a highly responsive touchscreen that enhances the usability of the machine. You can use it to select either of the 3 timing modes. You can as well use the knob on the right side of the LED lights to choose the wash and cure timing modes.
Another feature that makes the machine easy to use is the adjustable bracket. Instead of adjusting the model and moving it around, there is a bracket that you can adjust in height to ensure that your prints are thoroughly cleaned because you will be able to see the cleaning solution’s level and adjust accordingly.
The Anycubic Wash and Cure is relatively affordable. As of now, it is retailing at 139.99 dollars which is a pretty decent price given the machine packs a punch with multiple useful features and capabilities. It is a great investment for anyone who is into resin printing. Remember, you get to wash and cure your models in one machine.
This is an aspect that offers great peace of mind. If anything goes wrong with the machine within the warranted period, you can reach out to the manufacturer for repairs or replacement. Anycubic is also renowned for excellent customer and technical support for all their products.
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Once you are done printing with your resin printer, the model is likely to be sticky and slimy. The Anycubic Wash and Cure give you the chance to get rid of the sticky feeling. As mentioned above, the machine features a detachable washing container that you can fill up with a cleaning solution. At its bottom is a small propeller or agitator, which is powered by magnets to spin forwards and in reverse like the rotors in a washing machine.
There are 2 options for washing our prints. First, you can use a washing rack that has a holder for your 3D printer’s platform. This is the best option for washing small prints because it allows you to wash the print without taking it off the 3D printer’s platform.
The other option is taking the 3D model off the printer’s platform and putting it into the washing rack. It is the best for prints that are larger than 4.5 inches. In both instances, you must ensure the entire model is submerged before you begin washing.
Curing is the process that proceeds washing. It hardens the resin and smoothens the surface of the model further. You must remove all the support before you start curing. Take the washing container out of the machine, then replace it with the curing platform. The platform is designed to rotate so that the 3D model hardens uniformly on all sides. No more placing the model in the sun for hardening and ending up with uneven curing and warped parts.
The next step is placing the 3D model on the curing platform and selecting time. The rule of thumb is, if your model is 1.2 inches wide, then you only need to cure it for 2 minutes. If it is wider or has a sophisticated shape and surface area, then you can select a longer curing time. The Anycubic Wash and Cure has a turntable and a wide array of lights that can cure your model in the shortest time possible.
Post processing work is essential if you want your 3D prints to last longer and look better. Although you remove the supports and extra material in printing, you should wash and cure your prints to remove extra resins. It helps get rid of the stickiness, reduces the unnecessary gloss, and hardens your prints. So why is it important to wash and cure resin prints again? Mostly it is just to improve the aesthetics and physical quality of your 3D print models.
According to most experts, washing and curing prints is the best thing you can do to your resin prints. From our Anycubic Wash and Cure review, it goes without saying that the machine is the best thing you can invest in if you are into resin printing. It is incredibly versatile, allowing you to complete the two post-processing processes in a single device. This saves on money, space, and time. It is also built to offer thorough washing and even curing for your prints. Its wide compatibility and effective washing modes set it apart. Plus, its price is not in the stratosphere.
