Simple working models are used to visualize patient anatomy, case planning, presentation, and more. This practice provides precision, exceptional measurements, patient education, and laboratory collaboration opportunities. Due to color and opacity, it allows technicians to see details most clearly. 

Why Should I Use a 3D Printer? 

Speed: Depending on the size of the machine, it provides up to 6 working models in less than 1 hour. 

Cost: One unit of the working model prototype is obtained at a cost of $2.4. 

Precision: While the importance of the used machine is a factor, generally, a precision below 60 microns is achieved with 3D printers. 

Scanning and Design 

Today, two different methods are used to obtain digital data. The first of these is the use of intraoral scanners. With these scanners, you can transfer all the anatomical details of the patient's mouth to the computer environment within seconds. Another method is to take an alginate impression of the patient using traditional methods and then transfer this alginate impression to the computer environment with the help of a desktop scanner.

 
When considering working models, all you need to do is convert the model into a solid model through the interface program provided by your scanning company without the need for any special processing.  

 
Printing and Post-Processing 

After the scanning and planning stage, in order to print the obtained digital 3D designs on the machine we use, we need to prepare for printing first. 

Positioning and Support 

You can automatically remove the supports using the support settings recommended by Powerresins by lifting our models at least 2 mm from the table. 

 
 
You can place flat bottom models directly onto the platform without adding supports and then proceed to print. However, while this approach might provide you with an advantage in terms of printing speed, it could increase your resin consumption. Additionally, it may pose a risk of breakage when detaching the model from the platform. 

Printing Settings 

Let's visit our 3D Printer Settings Page

Common Printing Errors

1. Model Did Not Adhere to the Platform 

1. There could be multiple reasons for this issue. First, if you printed the model without using supports, the model might have been exposed to excessive vacuum effects. You can lift your model at least 2 mm from the platform and reduce the vacuum effect by providing an angle of up to 45 degrees.
2. You can increase the number of base layers, as explained in the print profile creation article. 
3. As the print profile creation article explains, you can increase the base layer curing time. 
4. Recalibrate the Print Platform. 

 2. Unwanted Lines on the Model 

These lines usually result from incorrect profile usage. Make sure you have set up your profile correctly. 

As a solution suggestion, 

1. Increase the normal layer curing time. 
2. Increase the normal layer lift distance.
3. If your machine is LCD-based, check the LCD condition. 
4. Ensure the FEP film of your resin tank is in working condition. 

3. Layers Not Fusing 

First, ensure that the correct profile is being used, as described in the previous error explanations. If needed: 

1. Increase the normal layer curing time. 
2. Increase the normal layer lift distance. 
3. If your machine is LCD-based, check the LCD condition.
4. Ensure the FEP film of your resin tank is in working condition. 

Alternatively, this issue might be due to errors during export in STL format from the scanning interface program. To be certain, check the PNG images of your model on the machine after slicing and ensure there are no missing layers. If a missing layer is found during slicing, repair your model using 3D Builder. 

4. Articulator Pins Don't Fit 

Articulators growing as thin, elongated bars can show warping in advancing layers, depending on your machine's capacity. Design your pins thicker. 

5. Problems with Closures 

If the closures of your model are too close, you can reduce the normal layer curing time; if they are too far, you can increase the normal layer curing time. Also, make sure this issue isn't design-related. Contact our expert team for detailed design information. 

6. Random Gaps in Supports 

1. Increase the curing time of normal layers. 
2. Increase the post-curing wait time. 
3. Decrease the lift speed and retract speed.
4. Increase support thickness. 

7. Model is Hard to Remove from the Platform 

This issue is often observed when the model is printed without support. Print your model using supports. If you still wish to print the same way: 

1. Decrease the curing time for the base layer. 
2. Calibrate the print platform with slightly more clearance. 

Post-Processing 

1. Washing  

After the printing is completed, wash the part attached to the build plate with ethyl alcohol (>90%) or isopropyl alcohol (>90%) for 5 minutes. 

Ensure the alcohol fully covers the part while washing. 

Use a brush if necessary to remove uncured resin. 

Do not over-wash, as it can distort the part's dimensions. 

2. Drying 

Use an air compressor to dry the washed part. 

Ensure the part is dry and all uncured resin is completely removed. 

If there's still uncured resin on the part, wash it with fresh alcohol and dry it again. 

3. Part Removal from Platform 

Detach your model from the platform using a hobby knife, spatula, or your hand directly. Be cautious during this process and prevent any harm to your hand from auxiliary parts. 

4. Curing 

Caution: Performing final curing outside of recommended settings can result in insufficient mechanical properties. Apply curing only as per Power Resins' official recommendations for the best possible results.