Resin Slicing

Please read Resin Materials as well before attempting to print.

Slicing is the process of going from a digital 3D model file to a format that the 3D printer can read to print that model. The Form 2 resin printer uses PreForm software. Downloadable here.

Loading a File

 * File > Open
 * Supports .STL or .OBJ files

"Magic Button"
If you really need a simple print oriented and supported without considerable planning, you can usually press the "magic button" in the top left corner. This orients the model as best it can and generates support. Then the print should be ready for printing, any issues will be reported in the right panel.

Orientation
The way you should orient a print is very different in resin printing compared to traditional FDM. The best practices are listed below.

Titled Surfaces


 * Orient large, flat surfaces at a 10-20 degree angle to increase the success rate. If there is a large surface to be done in a layer, when the print pulls from the resin it is more likely to fall and fail.  Tilting surfaces creates less content per layer, reducing failure chances.

Intersections


 * If two branching components come together at a rough junction somewhere, it is best to face this junction downwards towards the build plate. If the merge is completed first then the branches can separate easily later. But if two branches meet mid way through a print it has a chance to crack.

Overhangs


 * Since the printer prints one layer at a time, each layer builds on top of only the layer before it. Without support, overhangs will fail or be underdeveloped.  Support can help this, but if there is a way to orient the model to prevent overhangs it is preferable.

Suction Cups


 * Hollow or concave structures that face the build plate during the print have a chance to create a suction cup to the surface of the resin in the tank. If a suction cup occurs, the model will likely be pulled from the build plate mid print causing failure.

Support
Auto-Generated

Support is required to print all but very simple models. Overhangs, spans, and minima all require support. Auto-generating support with the "magic button" or the "auto-generate support button" is almost always good enough. It will support the model enough.

Manual

Click supports. Click under-supported (red) areas to add a support to it. Click apply and repeat until the model is fully supported.

Setting Printer, Material, Layer Thickness
Click the printer in the right side panel to open the printer, material, thickness menu.


 * Under Printer, select "SilkyGerbil Form 2"
 * Under Material, select the resin you are using (for both tank and cartridge)
 * Ensure the tank and cartridge displayed in the software match what is in the printer
 * Under Layer Thickness, select your desired layer height
 * Lower layer heights take significantly longer, but are higher resolution
 * Different options will be available depending on your material

Printing

 * Click the send print button from the print settings menu
 * Last checks:
 * Proper resin tank and cartridge
 * No floating artifacts in the resin tank
 * There is enough resin
 * There are no warnings on your sliced model
 * Click confirm on the physical printer