3D printing with resin is almost magical, but there is one question that keeps coming up among both beginners and advanced users: how long does a resin print actually take?
The short answer is: it depends. There is no fixed number, because print time varies according to multiple factors such as layer height, model size, lift speed, and the type of resin used.
In this article we are going to break down everything that influences print times and, most importantly, how to optimise them without sacrificing quality. And we will not focus solely on one specific brand such as Anycubic resins: this guide applies to any 405 nm UV resin, which is the market standard and the one used by the vast majority of 3D printers from manufacturers such as Anycubic, Elegoo, and other leading brands.
Factors that influence print time 📏🕒
The duration of a resin 3D print can vary depending on:
1. Layer height 🖤
Layer height defines the thickness of each solidified resin layer. The thinner it is (for example, 0.025 mm), the higher the resolution and level of detail, but also the longer the print time.
- Standard height: 0.05 mm (precise details and reasonable times).
- Fast height: 0.1 mm (less precise details, but faster prints).
Recommendation: If you are looking for fast prints without sacrificing too much detail, opt for a layer height of 0.05 mm.
2. Model Size 🎨
The size of the model directly impacts the total time. However, with resin 3D printers, printing a single large model takes the same amount of time as printing several small models on the same print bed.
Pro Tip: Make the most of your print bed capacity to optimize time.
3. Exposure Settings 🔦
Each layer requires an exposure time for the UV light to cure the resin. This time varies depending on the type of resin and the 3D printer.
- Standard resins: Exposure times between 2-4 seconds per layer.
- Special resins: Resins such as Anycubic Texture Resin may require more time.
Recommendation: Adjust the exposure time according to the resin manufacturer's recommendations. Check our Anycubic Resin Settings Guide for more details.
4. Total Model Height 🏗️
The height of the model is one of the most determining factors. A 50 mm print will be much faster than a 200 mm one, as the 3D printer works layer by layer.
5. Type of Resin 3D Printer 🤖
Your 3D printer's technology affects print times:
- LCD/MSLA: Offer faster times thanks to their ability to cure a complete layer simultaneously.
- Laser SLA: Slower, as they cure point by point.
How Long Does an Average Print Take? 🕒
To give you a clearer idea, here are some examples:
- 30 mm tall miniature: ~2-3 hours.
- 100 mm tall figure: ~5-8 hours.
- Large diorama (150 mm+ tall): ~12-15 hours.
How to Optimize Print Times 🚀
While you cannot completely eliminate print times, there are ways to reduce them:
1. Adjust the Layer Height
Reducing the layer height to 0.1 mm on projects that do not require ultra-fine details can save hours of printing.
2. Use Fast Resins
Resins such as Anycubic High-Speed Resin are formulated to cure faster, which significantly speeds up the process.
3. Optimize the Model Orientation
Placing the model at a 45° angle can reduce the number of layers needed and improve the final quality.
Extra Time: Post-Processing 🧼
After printing, you must account for the time needed to wash and cure your models:
- Washing: Use isopropyl alcohol to remove uncured resin (5-10 minutes). Check out our Isopropyl Alcohol Washing Guide.
- Final curing: Use a UV curing machine to fully harden the model (5-15 minutes).
Conclusion 🎯
So, how long does a resin 3D printer take to print? It will depend on factors such as layer height, model size, and exposure settings. On average, prints can take anywhere from 2 to 15 hours. However, with the right settings and optimized resins, you can maximize efficiency without compromising quality.
Ready to take your projects to the next level? Explore our resins and tools for 3D printing at Mr Resin and turn your ideas into reality. 🚀
