when to replace film

[Wdshea]

i had consistent failures of prints, and they were rather strange. one side of the part would come out but then you could see where the other side had stopped. also, the layers on the part were much more apparent.

replaced the film, prints look incredible, and no failures.

anyway, is there a way to ensure longer film life, or a way to orient parts and prevent damage?

on a side note, as soon as a print finishes, i install the shutter, turn off the power switch, hang the build plate, and loosen the tray. i figure i don't want the film stretched when not in use. i $h before every print, and stir the tray to check for cured resin on the film.

[mongerdesigns]

Just make sure you're not cleaning the film with anything rough like a paper towel. That can scratch it up. A soft silicone spatula is what I use to mix the resin in that tank. Usually if the film is scratched, dented or damaged in any way like that, it can cause failures. But I've had film that looked like the surface of the moon and it was printing fine

[Wdshea]

what causes the film to wear?

how many prints do you expect to get from one piece of film?

[mongerdesigns]

The film doesn't wear out but it can get damaged. I've had 50-60 prints on a film and 3 prints ( when indented it with the tweezers ).

If you have a failed print and need to remove it from the film, put a microfiber cloth (or pec pad) under the tank and gently push up with your fingers. Then carefully lift up the cured resin with the tweezers.

[Wdshea]

will the stir stick included with the printer damage the film?

[Jewelermdt]

If you use it to get failed prints off it can stretch the film in that spot if pressed to hard. Will cause a ripple like effect. Most of my fails stick real good to the film so I try and use Monger suggestion on getting it off.

I am finding band with lettering like yours need to be oriented just right so there is no fill in. Also make sure you run these type rings through Netfabb. Upon close inspection of mesh I see polygons sticking out of the ring. This area will usually leave a hole in the model when growing and cause a fail.

[Wdshea]

Whats the film made of?