MPT-Flex Printing and Post Processing

MPT-Flex Grey - A resin for tinkerers and advanced applications. Please read all safety and handling instructions before utilizing the MPT resin line. If you are a merchant or industrial printer and need something specific, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Experience the remarkable advantages of thermal curing with our advanced photopolymer resin. This innovative process ensures that your 3D printed parts are fully cured, enhancing their durability and structural integrity. One of the standout benefits of thermal curing is its contribution to skin safety; by ensuring a complete and uniform cure, the potential for skin irritation caused by uncured resin is significantly reduced. Thermal curing offers a streamlined, efficient post-processing step, It also provides consistent results, ensuring that each print meets the highest standards of quality and precision. 

Cytotoxicity test results of a printed and thermally cured test part can be downloaded HERE

Tips for printing: 

1. We recommend ACF or PFA release liner for MPT-Flex. It will reduce peel force during printing. When using alternatives, increase the diameter and touchpoint sizes of your supports to compensate for the increased peel force.

2.) Supports: Medium size models - 1.5 - 1.8 mm diameter with .5 - .6 mm touch points. Larger models require 1.8mm - 2.5mm diameter with .6 - .8mm touch-points. 

Step-by-Step Guide to Post-Curing Your printed parts. 

1.Washing Your Print: After your model is printed, carefully wash to remove any uncured resin. Use clean high purity IPA and gently agitate to ensure all residual resin is removed. using a soft brush to aid in the removal of the resin can be very useful here. Do not use a course brush as it can cause surface damage. If the model is hollow, rinse repeatedly to ensure all material is cleaned out from the inside - sufficient drain holes are required. 

2. Assessing Your Model: Examine your model's size and structure. For small to mid-sized solid models, you can typically proceed directly to thermal curing (if you choose) once the part is completely dry. 

3. Light Cure: Expose it to a 405nm UV light station for minimum 5 - 10 minutes exposure on all sides (or 5-10 minutes each side depending).

When should I Light Cure before thermal Cure?:

• When curing hollow models. Particularly small hollow models.This step will harden the surface and protect your hollow model from damage during the thermal cycle. This is not always necessary but could be a good protective step. 
• When you would like to increase the rigidity and hardness of your final part beyond what thermal curing at 275F for one hour will produce.

NOTE: Thermal curing is an option, not a requirement. If you simply wish to light cure only - light cure sufficiently to remove surface tack. Be sure your part is thoroughly cleaned and fully dried. We recommend 10-20 minutes of light on all sides if you do not plan on thermal curing. 

4.Thermal Curing: Preheat your designated oven to your desired temperature (usually 200*F - 275*F for 1 hour) For rigid parts and fast thermal curing, you can thermal cure at a maximum of 300*F for about 10-15 minutes (longer cure times at 300F will not improve your properties it will just begin to degrade the material) - see below table for temperature guides. Place your model in the oven and cure for the recommended time associated with your chosen temperature. Ensure that the model is positioned to allow even heat distribution.

NOTE: Air fryers are a superior option as they create even heat distribution and are less likely to discolor your model.

Important Safety Notice: Thermal Curing Guidelines

Please be aware that during the thermal curing process, there may be the emission of odors and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). To ensure a safe and pleasant working environment, we strongly advise conducting the thermal curing process in a well-ventilated area or outdoors. Additionally, it is crucial to keep isopropyl alcohol (IPA) or any other flammable substances at a safe distance from your thermal curing equipment to prevent accidents.

For your safety and to maintain the integrity of your food preparation areas, do not use kitchen or food ovens for curing your parts. Always utilize a designated device for thermal curing to avoid contamination. Once an oven has been used for curing, it should no longer be considered safe for food preparation.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can enjoy the benefits of thermal curing while ensuring the safety of your workspace and well-being.

5. Cooling Down:  After thermal curing, let the model cool down gradually at room temperature. Avoid moving or handling the model while it's hot to prevent damage. 

Temperature:	Time:	Modulus (psi)	Elongation (%)	Tensile Strength (psi)
Light Only	10m	60,000	20-23	1600
250*F	1 Hour	85,000	27-30	2000
275*F	1 Hour	170,000	22-25	3000

 

Tip: 
After curing at lower temperatures, you can manipulate the material into different positions. If you want your item to return to normal, you can put your print back in the oven and it should return to its original cure state.