The Form Wash L is a large-format desktop stereolithography (SLA) print cleaner designed to automatically remove uncured liquid resin from 3D printed parts. It is a floor-standing unit with overall product dimensions of 78 x 46 x 67 cm (30.7 x 18.1 x 26.4 in) and weighs 56.7 kg (125 lb) without solvent.
Function Description:
The Form Wash L cleans 3D printed parts by soaking and circulating them in a solvent. It features a wash bucket with a maximum capacity of 43 L (11.4 US gal) of solvent, where a rotating impeller at the bottom circulates the cleaning solution. A solvent monitor sensor measures the amount of resin dissolved in the solvent, indicating when replacement is needed. The device can wash parts either directly on the build platform or in a removable basket after separation from the platform. It includes a platform mount for holding build platforms and a basket mount for securing the basket. An inner lid and outer lid limit solvent evaporation.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Dimensions (W × D × H):
- Product: 78 x 46 x 67 cm (30.7 x 18.1 x 26.4 in)
- Minimum dimensions for convenient access: 100 × 120 × 120 cm (40× 48 × 48 in)
- Wash bucket: 54 × 28 × 41 cm (21.3 × 11.0 × 16.1 in)
- Weight: 56.7 kg (125 lb) without solvent.
- Wash bucket capacity: 43 L (11.4 US gal) total; 42 L (11.1 US gal) minimum to reach build platform; 12 L (3.2 US gal) minimum to submerge solvent monitor.
- Maximum part size (W × D × H): 33.5 × 20 × 30 cm (13.2 x 7.9 × 11.8 in).
- Compatible solvents: Isopropyl alcohol (IPA), Tripropylene glycol monomethyl ether (TPM), Water.
- Operating environment: 18–28 °C (64–82 °F), dry, indoor location, low ambient humidity, well-ventilated room (≥ 3 air exchanges per hour).
- Power requirements:
- Input (NA): 100–120 VAC, 50–60 Hz, 1 A max
- Input (EU): 220–240 VAC, 50–60 Hz, 1 A max
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz, IEEE 802.11 b/g/n, WPA/WPA2 security), Ethernet (100 Mbit, RJ-45, minimum Cat5/5e/6 shielded cable), USB (2.0 B port).
- Sound emission: Does not exceed 79.5 dB(A).
- Unit control: Interactive touchscreen.
Usage Features:
The Form Wash L offers a user-friendly interactive touchscreen for displaying wash cycle information, settings, and error messages. Users can select from preset wash cycles (Quick, Default, Long) or set a custom wash time up to 99:99. Specific guidelines are provided for biocompatible resins. The device automatically raises the platform and basket mounts at the end of a cycle, and can tilt the platform mount for two minutes to aid drainage. It supports washing Form 3L Build Platforms directly, or two Form 3 Build Platforms simultaneously using an adapter. Individual printed parts can be placed in the basket. The solvent monitor helps determine when solvent needs replacement, and the device notifies the user if the solvent is saturated or not selected. An electric siphon pump is included for safely transferring solvent. The machine can be connected to a network for remote monitoring via Formlabs Dashboard and for receiving firmware updates.
Maintenance Features:
Regular maintenance is crucial for optimal performance and longevity. This includes:
- Between uses: Checking solvent level (ensuring it's between min/max fill lines), inspecting the installation environment, and considering part geometries.
- Periodic maintenance (every three months or as indicated): Replacing used solvent (when indicated by the solvent monitor), cleaning the wash bucket, and inspecting the wash bucket and impellers.
- Intermittent maintenance: Updating firmware (when indicated by Formlabs), disposing of used solvent, and replacing the wash bucket (after 2,000 hours of use).
- Solvent management: The solvent monitor tracks resin concentration. Users are advised to replace solvent when it's no longer effective or parts feel tacky. Separate wash buckets are recommended for different resin types or colors to maintain surface quality.
- Cleaning: The wash bucket and solvent monitor should be rinsed with IPA or water and wiped with a paper towel. Impellers can be removed for inspection and cleaning.
- Safety: Users are warned to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as non-reactive nitrile gloves and safety glasses when handling liquid resin, solvent, or resin-coated surfaces. The manual emphasizes disconnecting power before maintenance and using carrying slings for transportation. It also provides detailed instructions for chemical spills and fire emergencies.