Published on Sat Sep 09 2023 00:47:20 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) by Alex

Elegoo Saturn 2: A Deep Dive into High-Resolution Resin Printing

The Elegoo Saturn 2 has quickly become a popular choice for hobbyists and professionals seeking high-detail resin 3D printing at a reasonable price. Its impressive build volume, combined with its remarkable 8K resolution, makes it a compelling option in the crowded resin printer market. This article provides a detailed exploration of the Saturn 2, covering its specifications, usage tips, and a comprehensive assessment of its capabilities.

Detailed Specifications:

• Technology: MSLA (Masked Stereolithography)
• Light Source: UV LED Matrix
• LCD Resolution: 7680 x 4320 (8K)
• XY Resolution: 28.5 μm
• Build Volume: 219 x 123 x 250 mm (8.62 x 4.84 x 9.84 inches)
• Z-Axis Resolution: 10 μm
• Layer Thickness: 0.01-0.2 mm
• Printing Speed: 30-70 mm/h
• Resin Compatibility: 405nm UV Resin
• Leveling: Manual with assisted leveling
• Connectivity: USB
• Operating System: Linux
• Slicer Software: CHITUBOX (Recommended)
• Power Requirements: 100-240V, 50/60Hz
• Machine Dimensions: 305.9 x 273 x 567.3 mm
• Weight: Approximately 11 kg

Usage Tips for Optimal Results:

Mastering resin printing requires more than just pressing “print.” Here are some tips to maximize your Saturn 2 experience:

1. Leveling is Key: Proper bed leveling is crucial for first layer adhesion and overall print success. Follow the assisted leveling process carefully, ensuring the build plate is perfectly parallel to the LCD screen. Regularly re-level the bed, especially after moving the printer or changing resins.

2. Resin Selection: Experiment with different resin brands and formulations to find what works best for your specific needs. Elegoo’s own resins are a good starting point, but don’t be afraid to explore options from other manufacturers. Consider factors like strength, flexibility, color, and viscosity when making your selection.

3. Exposure Settings: Dialing in the correct exposure settings is paramount for achieving optimal print quality. This involves adjusting the layer exposure time, bottom layer exposure time, and lift speeds. Use calibration prints (like the XP2 validation matrix) to fine-tune these settings for each resin.

4. Support Placement: Supports are essential for preventing print failures, especially with complex geometries. Carefully analyze your model and strategically place supports to provide adequate reinforcement. Consider using a combination of light, medium, and heavy supports based on the size and orientation of the overhangs.

5. Hollowing and Drainage: For larger prints, hollowing the model can significantly reduce resin consumption and printing time. Be sure to include drainage holes to allow resin to escape during the printing process and post-processing. Proper drainage prevents the model from cracking or exploding due to trapped resin.

6. Post-Processing: Resin prints require post-processing, including washing and curing. Use isopropyl alcohol (IPA) or a dedicated resin cleaner to remove uncured resin from the surface of the print. Follow this with UV curing to fully harden the resin and enhance its mechanical properties. Over-curing can make prints brittle, so experiment with different curing times.

7. Ventilation: Resin printing produces fumes, so it’s essential to work in a well-ventilated area or use an enclosure with a carbon filter.

8. Storage: Store resins in a cool, dark place to prevent premature curing. Keep the resin bottle tightly sealed to minimize moisture absorption.

9. Cleaning: Regularly clean your vat after each use and use the vat cleaning function to remove the smaller stuck on resin to avoid print failures, clean the screen with a very soft cloth to avoid scratching the screen.

10. Update Firmware: Ensure your printer’s firmware is up to date for the best performance and stability. Elegoo releases firmware updates periodically to address bugs and introduce new features.

Saturn 2 Score Breakdown (Out of 10):

• Print Quality: 9.5 - The 8K resolution delivers exceptionally detailed prints.
• Build Volume: 9 - A generous build volume is a key selling point.
• Printing Speed: 8 - Respectable speed, though not the fastest on the market.
• Material Compatibility: 8.5 - Compatible with a wide range of 405nm resins.
• Bed Adhesion & Leveling: 8 - Manual leveling can be fiddly, but works well with care.
• Reliability: 9 - Generally reliable with proper maintenance and dialed-in settings.
• Ease of Use: 8 - Relatively straightforward, especially with experience.
• Firmware and Software: 7.5 - Uses a proprietary firmware and it is a good starting software
• Connectivity Options: 7 - USB only, Wi-Fi would be a welcome addition.
• Build Quality & Durability: 8.5 - Solid construction and durable components.
• Noise Level: 8 - Fairly quiet operation compared to some other resin printers.
• Maintenance Requirements: 7.5 - Requires regular cleaning and occasional maintenance.
• Customer Support: 7 - Elegoo support can be variable.
• Upgradeability: 6 - Limited upgrade options.
• Price to Performance Ratio: 9 - Excellent value for the price.

Average Score: 8.1

Conclusion:

The Elegoo Saturn 2 is a compelling resin 3D printer that offers exceptional print quality, a large build volume, and a reasonable price. While it may require some initial effort to dial in the settings and master the post-processing workflow, the results are well worth the investment. Whether you’re a seasoned 3D printing enthusiast or just starting out, the Saturn 2 is a capable and versatile machine that can bring your digital creations to life with stunning detail.

Written by Alex