Nozzle Hub Elegoo Saturn 3

Published on Thu Jun 29 2023 05:58:24 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) by Alex

Elegoo Saturn 3: A Deep Dive into This High-Resolution Resin 3D Printer

The Elegoo Saturn series has carved a name for itself in the world of affordable, high-resolution resin 3D printing. The Saturn 3, the latest iteration, aims to build upon that legacy with incremental improvements and a focus on delivering exceptional detail. Let’s delve into the specifics, explore practical usage tips, and evaluate what makes the Saturn 3 a compelling choice for enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Detailed Specifications

Before we dive into practicalities, let’s lay out the technical specifications of the Elegoo Saturn 3:

Technology: MSLA (Masked Stereolithography Apparatus)
Light Source: COB (Chip On Board) UV LED Array
Wavelength: 405nm
LCD Screen: 10-inch 12K Mono LCD
Resolution: 11520 x 5120 pixels (19 x 24 μm XY resolution)
Build Volume: 218.88 x 122.88 x 210 mm (8.62 x 4.84 x 8.27 inches)
Z-Axis: Dual linear rails with ball screw
Release Film: ACF (Anti-Adhesion Coated Film)
Operating System: EL3D-3.0.1
Slicing Software: CHITUBOX, Lychee Slicer
Connectivity: USB
Power Supply: 100-240V 50/60Hz
Dimensions: 305.9 x 273 x 567.3mm (12.04 x 10.75 x 22.33 inches)
Weight: 11.3 kg (24.9 lbs)
Features: Air Purifier (Activated Carbon Filtration)

Usage Tips for Optimal Results

The Saturn 3, while user-friendly, benefits from a strategic approach to achieve consistent and high-quality prints. Here are some tips learned from experience:

Leveling is Key: Proper bed leveling is paramount. The Saturn 3 uses a simple, four-screw system. Take your time to ensure the build plate is perfectly parallel to the LCD screen. Over-tightening the screws can warp the build plate, so use gentle pressure. Re-level your bed after every 5-10 prints.
Resin Selection and Settings: Experiment with different resin types. While the Saturn 3 handles standard resins well, explore options like ABS-like or flexible resins for specific applications. Optimize your settings within your slicer. Pay close attention to exposure time, lift speed, and retract speed. Consider using resin exposure finder tests to dial in your settings for new resins.
ACF Film Care: The ACF film is more delicate than FEP film. Avoid using sharp objects on the film, and regularly inspect it for damage. Replace it when it becomes cloudy or damaged to maintain optimal print adhesion and release.
Print Orientation and Supports: Proper orientation is crucial for successful resin printing. Angle your models to minimize suction forces during printing. Use a slicer that automatically generates supports, but also manually add supports to critical areas to prevent warping or detachment. Consider heavier supports for large, flat surfaces.
Temperature Control: Resin is sensitive to temperature. Maintain a consistent ambient temperature, ideally between 20-25°C (68-77°F). If the temperature is too low, the resin will become viscous, which can affect print quality. Consider using a resin heater in colder environments.
Cleaning and Curing: Thoroughly clean your prints after they are removed from the build plate. Use isopropyl alcohol (IPA) with a concentration of 95% or higher. Submerge the prints in IPA for 10-15 minutes, then rinse them with clean IPA. Post-cure your prints using a UV curing station to improve their strength and durability. Don’t over-cure them, though, as this can lead to brittleness.
Ventilation: Resin printing produces fumes. Use the included air purifier to minimize odors, but also ensure your printing area is well-ventilated. Consider using a fume extractor for added protection.
Z-Axis Calibration: Periodically check and calibrate the Z-axis to ensure consistent layer heights. Minor variations in the Z-axis can lead to uneven print surfaces.
Build Plate Adhesion Issues: If prints are detaching from the build plate, try increasing the bottom exposure time, roughing up the build plate surface lightly with sandpaper, or applying a thin layer of resin on the build plate before starting the print.
Regular Maintenance: Clean the vat and build plate regularly to prevent resin buildup. Check the LCD screen for debris and clean it gently with a microfiber cloth. Lubricate the Z-axis lead screw periodically to ensure smooth movement.

Print Quality: 9/10

The 12K resolution LCD delivers exceptional detail, allowing for prints with extremely fine features and smooth surfaces. Layer lines are virtually invisible with proper resin and exposure settings.

Build Volume: 8/10

The build volume is adequate for most hobbyist and small-scale professional applications. It’s larger than some competing printers, allowing for larger single-piece prints or more simultaneous smaller prints. While not the largest on the market, it strikes a good balance between size and detail.

Printing Speed: 7/10

Printing speed is comparable to other MSLA resin printers. The use of a mono LCD screen allows for faster cure times compared to older RGB LCDs. However, resin printing is inherently slower than FDM printing.

Material Compatibility: 8/10

The Saturn 3 is compatible with a wide range of 405nm resins, including standard, ABS-like, flexible, and water-washable resins. Experimentation is key to finding the optimal settings for each resin type.

Bed Adhesion & Leveling: 7/10

Bed adhesion is generally good with proper leveling and appropriate bottom layer exposure. The leveling system is simple to use but requires periodic adjustment.

Reliability: 8/10

The Saturn 3 is a generally reliable printer. However, like all resin printers, it requires regular maintenance and attention to detail to avoid issues.

Ease of Use: 8/10

The printer is relatively easy to set up and use, especially for those familiar with resin printing. The intuitive touchscreen interface and clear instructions make it accessible to beginners.

Firmware and Software: 7/10

The firmware is stable and functional. While the included slicing software (CHITUBOX) is adequate, many users prefer using Lychee Slicer for its advanced features and support capabilities.

Connectivity Options: 5/10

Connectivity is limited to USB, which is standard for this type of printer. Wireless connectivity would be a welcome addition in future iterations.

Build Quality & Durability: 8/10

The printer has a sturdy metal frame and a well-built resin vat. The dual linear rails on the Z-axis provide stability and smooth movement.

Noise Level: 9/10

Resin printers are generally quieter than FDM printers. The Saturn 3 operates with minimal noise, making it suitable for home or office environments.

Maintenance Requirements: 6/10

Resin printing requires more maintenance than FDM printing. Regular cleaning of the vat, build plate, and LCD screen is essential. Replacing the ACF film is also a periodic requirement.

Customer Support: 7/10

Elegoo has a generally good reputation for customer support. They offer email support and an active online community where users can share tips and troubleshoot issues.