The resin printers we often discuss have three different types: SLA, LCD, and DLP. They are all based on the basic principle of light curing, which solidifies liquid resin into a three-dimensional model. SLA printing technology is very delicate and is commonly used in industrial grades, while LCD is the most commonly used desktop resin printer. In this guide, we will take a closer look at DLP printers. IS DLP 3D printer better? Does DLP printing need special resin? As a technology capable of printing high-precision model at very high speeds, DLP printers are also something that many 3D printing enthusiasts are curious about. If we have more information, when we want to own a resin printer, DLP printer can be one of our choices.
What is DLP (Digital Light Processing) 3D Printer?
Digital Light Processing is one of the 3D printing technologies and a type of vat polymerization. SLA technology uses a laser to cure the resin, while DLP printers require a digital light projector and screen. The core of DLP is a specially developed digital light projector screen and DMD equipment. DLP technology concentrates the light with minimal diffusion to the bottom of the resin tank, which can achieve ultra-high-precision printing effects. It is equivalent to the printer flashing out the image and completing the curing of a whole layer at a time. In terms of printing speed, DLP printing is much faster than SLA printing.
Does DLP Printing Need Special Resin?
What resin should I use for DLP printers? Is it the same resin used in SLA/MSLA printers? When purchasing a DLP printer, we usually choose several bottles of resin as printing materials. Resins for 3D printing are usually designed to work in specific wavelength. The main factor in whether the resin will work on the printer is also the wavelength. The resin used for 3D printing can realize model printing within a certain range of wavelengths. The better the match between the light emission band of the resin printer and the absorption band of the resin, the better the printing effect will be. For example, Standard Resin+ of Anycubic, suitable for curing wavelength is 365-405, while the light output of DLP printer Anycubic Photon D2 is 405, is available for DLP printer for 3D printing. Of course, there are also special resins for DLP printer on the market, such as Anycubic Craftsman Resin , which can achieve better printing results.
DLP vs LCD: Why Choose DLP 3D Printer
Currently, LCD resin printers are one of the mainstream consumer printers. MSLA technology enables printers to print more delicate models at a fast speed, which can meet most of the needs of 3D printing enthusiasts. LCD screens have a short lifespan, and for LCD printers, the LCD is a consumable item that needs to be replaced regularly. The screen life is generally 500-1000 hours, which depends on the machine and resin, as well as printing settings and other factors. For those who print very frequently, they may need to replace LCD every 3 months. The cost of replacing the LCD is between 50-130 US dollars.
The DLP printer can be superior in accuracy and service life. That’s why we try to introduce and recommend DLP 3D printers. DLP technology can print out models with higher precision under the same conditions, which greatly meets the needs of many people to use resin printers to complete the details of their works. The service life of DLP can reach 20,000 hours, even compared with upgraded LCD printers, there is more than 10 times the use time, greatly reducing the cost of replacement parts or daily maintenance.
