Wash & cure machines for resin 3D-printing – do you even need one and which are the best? (ranking)

One of the essential steps in creating high-quality 3D printed miniatures for tabletop wargaming is post-processing. This includes cleaning off any excess resin and curing the print to ensure it is fully hardened and ready for painting. A key piece of equipment for this process is a wash and cure machine. These machines are specifically designed to efficiently clean and cure your prints, saving you time and effort. With so many options on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is the best fit for your needs. In this blog post, we will be ranking the best available wash and cure machines for 3D printing wargaming tabletop miniatures, from cheapest to most expensive. We will also be pointing out the pros and cons of each product, to help you make an informed decision when it comes to your post-processing setup.

Do I really need a wash & cure machine? 

It is technically possible to 3D print with a resin printer without a wash and cure machine, but it is not recommended. Resin 3D printing requires the use of a liquid photopolymer resin that is cured by UV light. After the print is complete, the print needs to be washed to remove any uncured resin, and then cured again to ensure that the print is fully hardened and stable. The wash and cure machine is specifically designed for this process and makes it much easier and efficient to clean and cure the prints. Without a wash and cure machine, you would need to manually wash and cure the prints, which can be time-consuming and difficult, and may also result in lower-quality prints.

Can I build such a machine myself? 

It is possible to create a DIY wash and cure process for resin 3D printing, but it can be difficult and time-consuming. Some of the items you may need include:

• A container for washing the prints, such as a plastic tub or basin
• Isopropyl alcohol (IPA) for washing the prints
• A UV light source, such as a UV lamp or sunlight, for curing the prints
• A timer or other means of measuring the cure time
• A way to hold the print securely while it is being washed and cured, such as a small plastic container or a clip

Keep in mind that a proper wash and cure process is crucial for the quality of the final print and is highly recommended. Without a proper cure, the print may be brittle, discolored or even have bubbles. A proper wash is important to remove any remaining uncured resin on the surface of the print. A proper wash and cure station will also have a UV-filter to protect your eyes and skin.

Best available wash & cure systems:

These machines are designed to clean and cure your prints, removing any remaining resin and hardening the final product to make it ready for painting and gaming. There are a variety of wash and cure machines available on the market, each with their own unique features and price points. In this article, we'll take a look at some of the best wash and cure machines available for tabletop wargaming, and rank them from cheapest to most expensive.

1. The Anycubic Wash and Cure Machine: At a price point of around $200, the Anycubic wash and cure machine is one of the most affordable options available. It has a small footprint and is easy to use, making it a great option for those just getting started with resin printing. One potential downside is that it has a smaller build volume than some of the more expensive options, so it may not be suitable for larger miniatures.
2. The Elegoo Wash and Cure 2: Priced at around $300, the Elegoo Wash and Cure 2 is another great option for those looking for an affordable machine. It has a larger build volume than the Anycubic machine and also has a UV lamp for curing the prints. However, it has a slightly more complex user interface and may not be as user-friendly for those new to 3D printing.
3. The Phrozen Wash and Cure: Priced at around $500, the Phrozen Wash and Cure is a more expensive option, but it offers some additional features that make it stand out. The machine has a larger build volume than the previous options and it also has a built-in air filter to remove any fumes created during the curing process. It also has a built-in UV lamp for curing the prints. However, it is a bigger machine and may not be suitable for those with limited space.
4. The Form Wash and Cure: The Form Wash and Cure is one of the most expensive options available, with a price point of around $800. This machine has a large build volume and features a self-cleaning system that helps to keep the machine running smoothly. It also has a built-in UV lamp for curing the prints. However, it is a larger machine and may not be suitable for those with limited space.

Overall, when looking for a wash and cure machine for your 3D printed tabletop miniatures, there are a variety of options available, each with their own unique features and price points. The Anycubic and Elegoo machines are great options for those on a budget, while the Phrozen and Form machines offer additional features and a larger build volume. Ultimately, the best machine for you will depend on your specific needs and budget.

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