Published on Sat Nov 11 2023 17:52:41 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) by Alex

Diving Deep into the Anycubic Photon Mono 2: A Resin Printing Powerhouse

The Anycubic Photon Mono 2 is a popular resin 3D printer known for its affordability and impressive print quality. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Photon Mono 2, covering its specifications, practical usage tips, and an in-depth evaluation of its key performance areas.

What is the Anycubic Photon Mono 2?

The Anycubic Photon Mono 2 is a resin-based 3D printer that utilizes LCD masking technology to solidify liquid resin layer by layer, creating detailed and intricate 3D objects. It’s aimed at hobbyists, model makers, and anyone who values high-resolution prints for miniatures, jewelry, dental models, and more.

Detailed Specifications:

• Printing Technology: LCD-based SLA (Stereolithography)
• Light Source: Parallel Matrix UV LED
• LCD Resolution: 4K (4096 x 2560 pixels)
• LCD Screen Size: 6.6 inches
• Build Volume: 143 x 89 x 165 mm (5.63 x 3.5 x 6.5 inches)
• XY Resolution: 34 microns
• Z-Axis Resolution: 10 microns
• Layer Thickness: 0.01 - 0.15 mm
• Printing Speed: Up to 50 mm/hour
• Resin Compatibility: 405nm UV-sensitive resins
• Leveling: Manual
• Connectivity: USB
• Control Panel: 2.8-inch Touch Screen
• Slicer Software: Photon Workshop (Anycubic’s proprietary software)
• Power: 45W
• Dimensions: 220 x 227 x 446 mm (8.7 x 8.9 x 17.6 inches)
• Weight: ~4.3 kg (9.5 lbs)

Key Features and Improvements:

• 4K Resolution: The 4K LCD screen delivers incredibly sharp and detailed prints, capturing even the finest details.
• Large Build Volume: Compared to earlier Photon models, the Mono 2 provides a respectable build volume for printing larger objects or multiple smaller parts in a single batch.
• Upgraded Light Source: The parallel matrix UV LED light source ensures more uniform light distribution across the build plate, leading to consistent curing and improved print quality.
• Textured Build Plate: The laser-etched build plate provides excellent adhesion, minimizing the risk of prints detaching during the printing process.
• User-Friendly Interface: The 2.8-inch touchscreen makes navigating the printer’s menu and controlling print settings easy.

Usage Tips and Best Practices:

• Resin Selection: Experiment with different resins to find the best option for your specific application. Consider factors like strength, flexibility, and color. Always follow the resin manufacturer’s recommended settings.
• Leveling is Crucial: Proper bed leveling is essential for successful resin printing. Take your time during the leveling process and ensure the build plate is perfectly parallel to the LCD screen.
• Support Placement: Strategic support placement is critical for preventing print failures. Use the slicer software to add supports to overhangs and delicate features.
• Hollowing and Draining: For larger models, hollowing the model and adding drainage holes can save resin and reduce printing time. Be sure to clean the interior of the hollowed model thoroughly after printing.
• Post-Processing: Resin prints require post-processing, including washing and curing. Use isopropyl alcohol (IPA) to remove uncured resin from the print surface and then cure the print under UV light to fully harden the resin.
• Ventilation: Resin printing produces fumes, so it’s important to operate the printer in a well-ventilated area. Consider using a fume extractor or an enclosure with a ventilation system.
• Regular Cleaning: Clean the LCD screen and resin vat after each print to prevent resin buildup and ensure optimal print quality.
• Resin Storage: Store resin in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight to prevent premature curing.

Performance Evaluation:

Let’s evaluate the Anycubic Photon Mono 2 based on key performance metrics, on a scale of 1-10.

• Print Quality: 9/10 - The 4K resolution delivers excellent detail and smooth surfaces.
• Build Volume: 7/10 - Adequate for most hobbyist projects, but larger prints may require splitting the model.
• Printing Speed: 7/10 - Respectable speed, especially for detailed prints.
• Material Compatibility: 8/10 - Compatible with a wide range of standard 405nm resins.
• Bed Adhesion & Leveling: 7/10 - Textured plate helps with adhesion; manual leveling requires careful attention.
• Reliability: 8/10 - Generally reliable with proper usage and maintenance.
• Ease of Use: 8/10 - User-friendly interface and straightforward setup.
• Firmware and Software: 6/10 - Photon Workshop is functional but lacks some advanced features found in other slicers.
• Connectivity Options: 5/10 - Only USB connectivity.
• Build Quality & Durability: 7/10 - Mostly plastic construction; adequate durability for hobbyist use.
• Noise Level: 9/10 - Very quiet operation.
• Maintenance Requirements: 7/10 - Regular cleaning of the vat and LCD screen required.
• Customer Support: 6/10 - Online resources and community forum available, response times can vary.
• Upgradeability: 4/10 - Limited upgrade options.
• Price to Performance Ratio: 9/10 - Excellent value for its price point.

Overall Average Score: 7.33/10

Conclusion:

The Anycubic Photon Mono 2 offers a compelling combination of high-resolution printing, ease of use, and affordability. It’s a solid choice for beginners and experienced users alike who are looking to create detailed resin prints. While it has some limitations, such as the smaller build volume and manual leveling, its excellent print quality and user-friendly design make it a standout performer in its price range.

Written by Alex