Published on Sat Sep 24 2022 16:02:39 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) by Alex

Elegoo Saturn 3 Ultra: A Deep Dive into Resin Printing Power

The Elegoo Saturn series has consistently delivered impressive performance in the realm of MSLA (Masked Stereolithography Apparatus) resin 3D printing, and the Saturn 3 Ultra promises to be a worthy successor. This article delves into the specifics of the Saturn 3 Ultra, exploring its features, potential applications, and essential considerations for users.

Overview

The Elegoo Saturn 3 Ultra is a resin 3D printer targeted at hobbyists, professionals, and anyone looking for high-resolution, detailed prints with a manageable build volume. It’s designed to provide a user-friendly experience while offering advanced features like a fast printing speed and enhanced light source.

Key Specifications

• Technology: MSLA (LCD-based SLA)
• Light Source: COB (Chip-on-Board) + Refractive Lens
• LCD Screen: 12K Mono LCD
• Resolution: 11520 x 5120 pixels (19x24 cm)
• XY Resolution: 19 μm
• Build Volume: 218.88mm (L) x 122.88mm (W) x 260mm (H)
• Printing Speed: Up to 150mm/h (using specific resins and settings)
• Z-Axis: Dual Linear Rails
• Connectivity: USB, Ethernet, WiFi
• Slicer Software: CHITUBOX, Lychee Slicer
• Operating System: Linux
• Power: 120W
• Dimensions: 305.9mm (L) x 273mm (W) x 567.3mm (H)
• Weight: 11.3 kg

Detailed Features

12K Mono LCD & High Resolution

At the heart of the Saturn 3 Ultra lies its 12K monochrome LCD screen. With a resolution of 11520 x 5120 pixels, it achieves a pixel size of just 19 microns. This translates to incredibly fine detail in your prints, allowing for intricate designs and smooth surfaces. The use of a monochrome screen also significantly reduces layer cure times, contributing to the printer’s overall speed.

Powerful COB Light Source

The Saturn 3 Ultra employs a COB (Chip-on-Board) light source paired with a refractive lens. This combination is designed to deliver more uniform and consistent light across the entire build platform. This uniformity is crucial for achieving even curing, minimizing warping, and ensuring accurate dimensional accuracy across the entire print.

Fast Printing Speed

One of the major selling points of the Saturn 3 Ultra is its claimed print speed of up to 150mm/h. This impressive speed is achievable with specific high-speed resins and optimized settings. While not all resins can be printed at this speed, the printer’s advanced light source and LCD technology enable faster printing than many competitors, even with standard resins.

Sturdy Build and Z-Axis Stability

The printer boasts a robust construction with dual linear rails on the Z-axis. This setup provides enhanced stability during the printing process, minimizing wobble and ensuring consistent layer alignment. A stable Z-axis is essential for achieving high-quality prints, especially for taller and more complex models.

Connectivity and Software Integration

The Saturn 3 Ultra offers a range of connectivity options, including USB, Ethernet, and WiFi. This flexibility allows you to transfer print files conveniently and monitor progress remotely. The printer is also compatible with popular slicing software like CHITUBOX and Lychee Slicer, giving you control over print settings and supports.

User-Friendly Features

Elegoo has focused on user-friendliness with features like a pre-installed Linux operating system, a simple and intuitive user interface, and easy-to-use leveling system. These features make the Saturn 3 Ultra accessible to both beginners and experienced users alike.

Usage Tips and Best Practices

• Resin Selection: Experiment with different resins to find the ones that best suit your needs. Consider factors like strength, flexibility, and chemical resistance.
• Slicing Settings: Proper slicing is crucial for successful resin printing. Adjust settings like layer height, exposure time, and support density based on your model and resin type. Consult Elegoo’s documentation and online communities for recommended settings.
• Support Placement: Strategic support placement is essential for preventing print failures. Pay attention to overhangs and islands, ensuring they are adequately supported. Use slicing software features to automatically generate supports, but always manually review and adjust them as needed.
• Bed Leveling: Ensure the build plate is properly leveled before each print. A well-leveled bed is crucial for adhesion and prevents warping.
• Ventilation: Resin printing produces fumes, so it’s essential to work in a well-ventilated area or use an enclosure with a filtration system.
• Post-Processing: After printing, models need to be washed in isopropyl alcohol (IPA) and cured with UV light. Follow the resin manufacturer’s instructions for proper post-processing procedures.
• Maintenance: Regularly clean the resin vat and LCD screen to prevent resin buildup and ensure optimal performance.

Potential Applications

The Elegoo Saturn 3 Ultra is a versatile printer suitable for a wide range of applications, including:

• Miniatures: Printing highly detailed miniatures for tabletop games.
• Jewelry Design: Creating intricate jewelry prototypes and custom pieces.
• Dental Models: Producing accurate dental models for orthodontic and restorative purposes.
• Prototyping: Rapidly prototyping mechanical parts and product designs.
• Functional Parts: Printing functional parts for robotics, engineering, and other applications.
• Art and Sculptures: Creating detailed art pieces and sculptures.

Overall Score

Here’s a breakdown of the Elegoo Saturn 3 Ultra’s performance in key areas, rated out of 10:

• Print Quality: 9.5
• Build Volume: 8
• Printing Speed: 9
• Material Compatibility: 8.5
• Bed Adhesion & Leveling: 8
• Reliability: 8.5
• Ease of Use: 9
• Firmware and Software: 8
• Connectivity Options: 9
• Build Quality & Durability: 8.5
• Noise Level: 7
• Maintenance Requirements: 7.5
• Customer Support: 7
• Upgradeability: 6
• Price to Performance Ratio: 9

Average Score: 8.17/10

Conclusion

The Elegoo Saturn 3 Ultra is a compelling option for anyone seeking a high-resolution, fast, and user-friendly resin 3D printer. Its 12K LCD, powerful light source, and robust construction contribute to exceptional print quality and reliable performance. While requiring the standard safety precautions and post-processing associated with resin printing, the Saturn 3 Ultra offers a significant step up in terms of speed and detail, making it a valuable tool for hobbyists and professionals alike. Its overall average score reflects its strong performance across various categories, making it a solid choice for those looking to dive into the world of resin 3D printing.

Written by Alex