CW1S Cracked lids?
Today i noticed a crack in the lid of my CW1S. I did not abuse my lid, so I was quite surprised to find out it had a crack in it. It appears I'm not the only one that is experiencing problems with the lid of the CW1S.
I would like to know if there is any way to prevent this from happening again.
Also, is a fix in the works? Perhaps a metal lid would be a good idea?
RE: CW1S Cracked lids?
The lid of my CW1 cracked when it closed too fast, by falling down rather than being closed gently. I’ve used it with a crack ever since, which hasn’t been a problem; just some UV leaks out.
RE: CW1S Cracked lids?
which hasn’t been a problem; just some UV leaks out.
That cover is there for a reason. I try not to be around the CW1S when the UV light is on, because even short exposures are really bad for your eyes. It's a huge health risk to look at that light.
RE: CW1S Cracked lids?
Alcohol vapors are the culprit. Alcohol and Acrylic do not mix. Direct contact to liquid alcohol will generally cause crazing but limited contact through vapors weakens the acrylic. Do not store the vat of alcohol in the printer with the lid closed! Do not operate the cleaning function with out the vat cover in place.
Personally, I do not close the lid when operating the system in cleaning mode. My work flow:
Print the object on the SL1S
Wipe excess resin off of build plate with paper towel
Place build plate in cleaning vat mounted on cover.
Run cleaning cycle with the acrylic lid open.
Switch cover to second cleaning vat and run a second cycle.
Remove vat from CW1S and close the lid
scrape object into temporary bin to dry & clean alcohol off of build plate, then place back in SL1S
You can temporarily repair a cracked lid using the aluminum metal tape used on ductwork purchased at a hardware store. it looks like crap unless you cover the whole lid with it though. attach it to both sides of the crack and it will hold the unit together. Much cheaper than purchasing a new acrylic cover.