3D Printing Test: Anycubic Resin Exposure Range Finder RERF🧪
Have you ever found that when switching resin types, some prints turn out fine but others don't achieve enough definition and details are lost? In this post we explain every step you need to follow to complete the RERF test and perfectly calibrate the exposure time of your 3D printer and any resin 😎
If you've been in the resin 3D printing world for a while, you probably already know that exposure time is key to getting successful results. In case you're not familiar with it, basically "exposure time" refers to the time it takes for liquid resin to harden under UV light.
And here's one of the most important parts: every 3D printer and resin has its own "personality", so what works for one won't always work for another. And yes, we mean every 3D printer, including those from the same line, since the conditions where you print (humidity, temperature, etc.) also affect results — so someone else's RERF result with the same 3D printer as yours may be helpful, but won't necessarily work for yours.
Why is exposure time so important? 🕒
If you've ever printed before, you've probably experienced something like this: you leave your resin underexposed, and the model ends up with imperfect details, support issues that don't stick, or it even detaches from the build plate. On the other hand, if you overexposed it, the object ended up larger than expected and lost precision. Imagine printing a miniature and ending up with a Hulk 3 cm bigger than planned that nothing fits onto. No, thanks!
Anycubic RERF: The Savior of Anycubic Resin Printers 🙌
That's where the Anycubic RERF (Resin Exposure Range Finder) comes in. This exclusive GCODE file for Anycubic 3D printers allows you to run 8 test prints in a single job, each with a different exposure time. Less trial and error, more efficiency!
Picture this: you plug in your USB, pour in the resin, and wait. At the end you'll have eight small prints made with different exposure times to compare and see which one is right. It couldn't be easier!
Important note: Do not use the same file for different Anycubic 3D printers, and don't rename the file! The system will only recognize the original name "R_E_R_F".
If you don't have it or lost your original USB, don't worry, here is the link where you can find all the RERFs organized by printer. Simply navigate to the SLA 3D Printer section, choose your printer model, and look for R_E_R_F in the test files.
How to use Anycubic RERF?
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Load the file in the slicer: Import the R_E_R_F file into the slicing software. This file contains eight numbered models so you can easily keep track of them. Each number corresponds to a different exposure time.
Example: If the normal exposure time is 1.5 s, the exposure time for the other models will increase in increments. Here is how it would look:
Number Exposure time 1 1.5 s 2 1.75 s 3 2 s 4 2.25 s 5 2.5 s 6 2.75 s 7 3 s 8 3.25 s This way you can compare the results to see which is the best fit for your resin and printer. 😎
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Compare the results: Clean the test models and pay close attention to the surface details. Do you see sharp edges and clear details? That indicates the exposure time is right. If you notice lost details or too many "blobs", then something is not quite right.
What differences can appear between the models?
For example, if you have model A with many holes and few cylinders, it means more details will be printed, but with a high risk of print failure. On the other hand, model B will have fewer holes, but with a lower risk of failure, although some details will be lost.
If after the comparison none of them convinces you, you can adjust the "normal exposure time" in the slicer and repeat the process.
Conclusion: Adjust your exposure time like a pro
The Anycubic RERF is an incredible tool for resin printers. It allows you to adjust the exposure settings quickly and efficiently, without wasting liters of resin on endless tests. Remember, the better calibrated the exposure time, the more precise and detailed your models will be. 🎯
If you're someone who likes to get everything perfect and save time, don't hesitate to run a test with the Anycubic RERF and share your results in our Telegram group! 💬
With this article, we guarantee that the next time you print in resin, you'll be able to calibrate your 3D printer like a true expert!
Special mention to the original article by Anycubic
