3D Printer Resins: Types and Properties

3D printer resins are the materials used in liquid resin stereolithography (SLA) 3D printers or LCD/DLP 3d printers. There are several different types of resin available, each with its own properties and applications. The main types of 3D printer resin include:

Standard Resin: This is a general purpose resin used for prototyping. It has good strength, impact resistance and detail resolution. Standard resin works well for concept models, functional prototypes and some end-use parts.

Tough Resin: This resin has enhanced flexibility and impact resistance. It's a good option for parts that need to flex or bend without breaking. Tough resin works well for hinges, handles and other movable components.

Clear Resin: This transparent resin allows the internal features of a 3D printed part to be visible. Clear resin has applications in lighting fixtures, lenses, displays and parts with decorative fill patterns.

Castable Resin: This resin is specially formulated for creating molds and casting. It produces details with high fidelity and durability to make molds that can withstand multiple casting cycles.

High Temp Resin: This resin has high heat resistance, able to withstand temperatures up to 200 degrees Celsius. It's used for applications requiring heat resistance like engine covers, housings and electrical components.

UV Resistant Resin: This resin contains UV stabilizers to prevent degradation from UV light exposure. It's used for applications that will be exposed to sunlight, like figurines, prototypes and outdoor architectural models.

Water Washable Resin: This resin type uses a water-based cleaning solution instead of alcohol, making it safer and more environmentally friendly. Water washable resin is a good option for educational use.

ABS-like resin: ABS-like resin is a type of 3D printer resin that replicates the properties of Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) plastic. It is known for its high impact resistance, durability, and heat resistance. This resin is commonly used for functional prototypes, automotive parts, and consumer products. ABS-like resin offers excellent layer adhesion, making it suitable for creating parts with intricate details and complex geometries. It is also available in various colors, allowing for vibrant and visually appealing prints.

PA-Like Resin: PA-like resin, also known as Polyamide-like resin, is a 3D printer resin that mimics the properties of Polyamide (PA) or Nylon. It is recognized for its high strength, flexibility, and resistance to wear and tear. PA-like resin is often used for producing functional parts requiring toughness, such as gears, hinges, and snap-fit assemblies. It offers good chemical resistance and can withstand repeated stress, making it suitable for engineering applications. This resin is also available in different colors and can be post-processed to achieve a smoother surface finish.

So in summary, there are a variety of 3D printer resin types available with different properties to suit various applications. Choosing the right resin based on your specific needs will produce the best results for your 3D prints.