My (failed) castings w/SolusCast
Posted: Tue Feb 13, 2018 11:45 pm
I would like to preface this with the Solus is hands down the best SLA 3D printer. Comparing the results achieved from the Solus to every other machine we have had samples from, there is no comparison.
I cast 4 rings with SolusCast. These same models, if cast in Emerald, would still have flaws. These are our "benchmark" rings used to prove the achievable detail and castability. The most detailed parts of these rings are not shown, the simplest designs are shown. Below is part of my procedure.
This exact process is used with B9 Emerald with almost no flaws whatsoever. I followed my exact procedure simply to prove out if SolusCast was a forgiving, castable resin. Also, I still use Creation Workshop.
Printed using my Emerald print profile (layers were over cured; in my experience, only helps casting)
Cleaned in ultrasonic with 90% IPA thoroughly, sanded supports nubs, rinsed again (in ultrasonic) in clean IPA
Cured 8 cycles at 2min each submerged in glycerin in B9 200w curing box, after each round models are turned.
(NO HEAT WAS USED IN CURING; heat causes defects)
Invested in Plasticast w/2% boric/water @ 34:100 (3 min mix, degass, pour, degass flask for 1.5min)
Benchrest 8+hrs
Burn out cycle:
Ramp FULL -> 300*F hold 30min
Ramp FULL -> 750*F hold 1hr
Ramp FULL -> 1200 hold 15min
Ramp FULL -> 1500 hold 3hrs
Ramp FULL -> Cast temp
I've been using the 750*F hold for about a year and a half now. I read in a study back then proving the best combustion of resin at that temp. Interesting to see that show up in other burn out schedules.
One thing I've noticed about SolusCast is that it is a very hard resin, similar in that way to B9 Yellow. SolusCast also offers very fine detail (similar to Yellow). Though, I've also noticed that softer resins (after cure) seem to cast better (B9 Emerald, Waxcast) than the harder resins. I understand this is not scientific by any stretch, but the facts remain.
No further testing will be done on my part in regard to SolusCast, though I am open to criticism of my process. I've found that on this 2+ year journey to achieve a workable process, it's best to move on unless great strides are made.
One other thing I will add, and this may attribute to the lack of success I have had. The jewelry I am casting is not traditional. Most details are 'negative' on our rings. (see picture) Whereas I notice most rings that people cast have 'positive' details. Since resins must inhibit light to achieve great detail, quite obviously, that same property will hinder cure. With this in mind, it makes sense that 'negative' details are difficult to cure (and cast) unless exposed to direct UV light.
In no way is this post intended to disparage this resin, the company who sells it, or anyone else involved in developing the resin. This is only my experience, using an unapproved software and process.
I cast 4 rings with SolusCast. These same models, if cast in Emerald, would still have flaws. These are our "benchmark" rings used to prove the achievable detail and castability. The most detailed parts of these rings are not shown, the simplest designs are shown. Below is part of my procedure.
This exact process is used with B9 Emerald with almost no flaws whatsoever. I followed my exact procedure simply to prove out if SolusCast was a forgiving, castable resin. Also, I still use Creation Workshop.
Printed using my Emerald print profile (layers were over cured; in my experience, only helps casting)
Cleaned in ultrasonic with 90% IPA thoroughly, sanded supports nubs, rinsed again (in ultrasonic) in clean IPA
Cured 8 cycles at 2min each submerged in glycerin in B9 200w curing box, after each round models are turned.
(NO HEAT WAS USED IN CURING; heat causes defects)
Invested in Plasticast w/2% boric/water @ 34:100 (3 min mix, degass, pour, degass flask for 1.5min)
Benchrest 8+hrs
Burn out cycle:
Ramp FULL -> 300*F hold 30min
Ramp FULL -> 750*F hold 1hr
Ramp FULL -> 1200 hold 15min
Ramp FULL -> 1500 hold 3hrs
Ramp FULL -> Cast temp
I've been using the 750*F hold for about a year and a half now. I read in a study back then proving the best combustion of resin at that temp. Interesting to see that show up in other burn out schedules.
One thing I've noticed about SolusCast is that it is a very hard resin, similar in that way to B9 Yellow. SolusCast also offers very fine detail (similar to Yellow). Though, I've also noticed that softer resins (after cure) seem to cast better (B9 Emerald, Waxcast) than the harder resins. I understand this is not scientific by any stretch, but the facts remain.
No further testing will be done on my part in regard to SolusCast, though I am open to criticism of my process. I've found that on this 2+ year journey to achieve a workable process, it's best to move on unless great strides are made.
One other thing I will add, and this may attribute to the lack of success I have had. The jewelry I am casting is not traditional. Most details are 'negative' on our rings. (see picture) Whereas I notice most rings that people cast have 'positive' details. Since resins must inhibit light to achieve great detail, quite obviously, that same property will hinder cure. With this in mind, it makes sense that 'negative' details are difficult to cure (and cast) unless exposed to direct UV light.
In no way is this post intended to disparage this resin, the company who sells it, or anyone else involved in developing the resin. This is only my experience, using an unapproved software and process.