Silicone Spatula
Essential Tool for 3D Resin Printing: The Silicone Spatula
When it comes to 3D resin printing, having the right tools can make all the difference in maintaining the quality and longevity of your prints and equipment. One of the most underrated yet incredibly useful tools is the silicone spatula, designed specifically for mixing resin and cleaning your vat.
Why You Need a Silicone Spatula
Many beginners in the 3D resin printing hobby mistakenly believe they need to empty and thoroughly clean their vat every time they change their resin. This often involves wiping the FEP (Fluorinated Ethylene Propylene) film with paper towels or microfiber cloths, which can be tedious and risky. Using the wrong materials can cause micro-scratches on the FEP, which negatively impacts print quality. A silicone spatula eliminates the need for this cumbersome process. It provides a simple, effective, and safe method for maintaining your vat without causing damage.
Features to Look For
Not all silicone spatulas are created equal.
For 3D resin printing, you should look for the following features:
- Smooth, Flexible Silicone: The spatula should be made from smooth and flexible silicone that won’t scratch or damage the FEP film.
- Flat Bottom: A spatula with a flat bottom ensures maximum surface area contact, allowing you to push resin across the vat evenly and smoothly.
- Holes in the Spatula: Holes in the spatula create turbulence when mixing resin, making the process more efficient. The resin flows through the holes, speeding up the mixing process significantly.
How to Use the Silicone Spatula
Using a silicone spatula in your 3D resin printing workflow is straightforward:
- Mixing Resin: Before each print, use the spatula to mix the resin in the vat. The holes in the spatula help create turbulence, ensuring the resin is thoroughly mixed quickly.
- Cleaning the Vat: After a print, use the spatula to feel the bottom of the FEP. This helps you detect any particles or remnants of prints that might be stuck, ensuring the vat is clean for the next print.
- Maintaining the FEP: Regular use of the silicone spatula can help maintain the FEP in good condition, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
Recommended Product
We’ve identified an excellent, inexpensive silicone spatula that fits these criteria. Available on Amazon and other retailers like Walmart, this spatula is almost identical to the one we use in our lab. It’s a handy tool that you will find yourself using constantly. For less than $10, it’s a small investment that can significantly enhance your 3D resin printing experience.