HOW TO WASH YOUR JEWELRY MODELS AFTER 3D PRINTING?

The development of 3D printing technology has completely changed the jewelry-making process, giving designers creative flexibility to realize sophisticated and unique creations. But the 3D print isn't the end of the process. Jewelry models need to be carefully cleaned after 3D printing to create a perfect, polished final result. To achieve perfect casting results, it is important that Jewelry Models printed with Cast-able Resins are washed with the right solvent and no residue either of the Resin or the solvent is left behind.

DLP 3D printing has grown a lot in popularity because it can create high-accuracy, Directly Cast-able, consistent prototypes with fine features and flawless surface finishes. Post-processing is frequently necessary since pieces do not come out of the printer 100% completed. Although components are smooth and ready to use right out of the Build Platform, a few more finishing touches will make them fit for a variety of functions.

COMPREHENDING THE SIGNIFICANCE OF CLEANING IN 3D-PRINTED JEWELRY:

Let's take a quick look at why cleaning is such an important part of the 3D printing workflow before we get into the detailed procedure for cleaning 3D-printed jewelry models.

·         Removal of Resin Residue and Support Structures:

Following 3D printing, jewelry models frequently include leftover uncured resin and support structures. A thorough cleaning ensures that the jewelry item is free of undesired materials by assisting in the removal of these supports and getting rid of any residual resin.

·         Texture Finish:

Cleaning is essential for 3D-printed jewelry to have a polished and smooth surface. If residual materials are left on the model, the fine details and charm of the finished product may be compromised.

·         Seamless Casting Results:

If any form of solvent or resin residue is left on the Jewelry models, it will damage the polymer chains of the models. Resulting in bad casting and inconsistent weights. Therefore, it is essential to wash the models and get rid of all the Resin Residue, after that compressed air is used to evaporate the solvent.

Supplies and Equipment Needed to Wash Jewelry Models:

The right tools and materials must be on hand before beginning any cleaning process to ensure efficiency and smoothness.

·         Filter/Strainer Boxes: When the Jewelry models are Printed they are scrapped from the build platform into these boxes to gather the dripping resin from the models to reduce wastage

·         Isopropyl alcohol (IPA): Isopropyl alcohol (IPA) is a common ingredient used in the post-processing of resin objects that are 3D printed. It acts as a solvent and helps remove uncured resin from the model.  Select a high-quality IPA whose concentration is appropriate for the specific type of resin you are using. IPA though commonly used is not an ideal solvent when the cast-able Resin models are concerned. It might take a lot of quantity to get the ideal cleansing. Most commonly Resin residue and IPA are left on the models which results in bad casting.

·         Ethyl Alcohol 99%: 99% Ethyl Alcohol is the most effective solvent when it comes to cleaning Jewelry Models. Ethyl alcohol seamlessly removes Uncured Resin and easily evaporates with compressed air.

·         Compressed Air station: When the 3D Printed Jewelry models are washed the remaining alcohol-based solvent is needed to completely remove as it disturbs the polymer chains of the jewelry model. Only Compressed Air should be used for this.

·         Washing equipment/ Beakers: Resin Models need to be repeatedly washed to remove uncured Resin. Either one can be washing equipment that resembles a small washing machine or large beakers can be used.

·         Safety Gear: Put on the proper safety gear, including gloves and, safety glasses, to ensure your safety. This is especially crucial when working with cleaning solutions like IPA.

·         Gentle Bristles: Paintbrushes and toothbrushes are examples of gentle brushes that are helpful for carefully moving the model while cleaning. Without inflicting any harm, they assist in removing resin remains from delicate details.

·         UV Light Source: After printing, some resins need to be post-cured. Get access to a UV light source to cure the resin you used properly, after washing. 

Washing Jewelry Models After 3D Printing:

Jewelry parts need to be cleaned by removing extra, sticky resin, to get smooth and polished DLP 3D-printed components. To ensure that your 3D-printed pieces are neither sticky nor unpleasant, post-processing washing is essential. Let's now explore the in-depth procedure for cleaning your 3D-printed jewelry models to get the best outcomes.

·         Washing:

It is advised to clean 3D Printed components especially Jewelry models using either isopropyl alcohol (IPA) or 99% Ethyl Alcohol. For cleaning components, most users find that Ethyl Alcohol works better. Parts should be immersed in the solvent and for complete cleanliness, some components would need to be cleaned twice in IPA or Ethyl Alcohol.

·         Post Curing

When a DLP or any other type of resin 3D printer has completed printing, the polymerization process may be still ongoing. If the material is post-cured, or exposed to heat and light, it will solidify more. Post-curing is not needed for most resins. For some resin types to attain their optical mechanical properties, post-curing is necessary; But each material needs to undergo the curing process for a specific amount of time.

·         Examination and Additional Work:

Examine the cleaned and dried jewelry model carefully for any flaws or rough spots. At this stage, additional post-processing procedures such as sanding, polishing, or more detailing may be performed if required.

·         Sanding:

Sanding the components is the most efficient approach to remove defects, smooth edges, and any leftover support marks from 3D-printed jewelry. It may be impossible or very difficult to sand complex objects by hand that have deep voids and internal supports, but it works best on basic shapes. Using 3,000-grit sandpaper, one can smooth and glossy 3D-printed objects. After polishing and smoothing the component to the desired texture, gradually increase the grit level. In the case of Jewelry Applications, Sanding is only done to remove Support Marks.

Jewelers build complex jewelry models layer by layer using specialized 3D printers that use resins. Post-processing is an essential part of the manufacturing pipeline since these models frequently include intricate features and sensitive structures. This painstaking procedure guarantees that the finished product will be according to the required quality and aesthetic standards.