AMR Software
AMR Data Centers

From IPA to Innovation: Transitioning to Safer Resin Cleaning Solutions for Additive Manufacturing

Share this Article

In resin-based 3D printing, post-processing is crucial for high-quality parts. After photopolymer resins are cured, printed objects are often covered in excess resin that must be removed before further post-processing steps. Traditionally, this is done by manually submerging the parts in isopropyl alcohol (IPA) and scrubbing them, which is both labor-intensive and risky for the overall environment.

IPA poses significant challenges in additive manufacturing due to its flammability, which increases workplace accident risks and releases volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These VOCs degrade air quality and can cause respiratory issues. Additionally, the repetitive task of scrubbing parts with IPA can lead to technician fatigue and inconsistencies in part quality.

Addressing Safety and Efficiency

To tackle these challenges, PostProcess Technologies has developed automated solutions that eliminate the need for IPA by combining innovative hardware, proprietary software, and additive-specific chemistries. They have engineered a workflow that effectively cleans excess resin while addressing safety and environmental concerns.

In this process, printed parts are placed into a DEMI system which utilizes Submersed Vortex Cavitation technology and PLM-403-SUB detergent. This system efficiently cleans the parts, removing residual resin from the printing process. However, a final rinse step is necessary to prepare parts for curing and/or additional cleaning steps.

IPA has traditionally served as the final rinse step, but it has an incredibly low flashpoint, which makes it a hazard to any facility, and as previously mentioned, some facilities and countries will not allow IPA to be used at all in their facilities.

How to Eliminate IPA from Resin Post-Processing

To completely eliminate IPA from the resin removal workflow, PostProcess has developed AUX-400-RINSE. This organic-based rinse solution can be used as a final rinse step following processing in PostProcess automated resin removal solutions.

PostProcess conducted comprehensive testing of AUX-400-RINSE, focusing on flashpoint, drying time, safety, longevity, and material compatibility. The findings revealed that AUX-400-RINSE surpasses industry safety and performance standards and also sets a new benchmark for post-processing excellence.

The full PostProcess resin removal workflow, featuring AUX-400-RINSE, streamlines operations, reduces manual labor, and ensures consistent part quality, promoting regulatory compliance and a healthier work environment.

Pioneering a Safer Future

The development of AUX-400-RINSE highlights PostProcess Technologies’ commitment to advancing industry standards through safer and more efficient solutions. Manufacturers can improve safety, enhance environmental practices, and achieve operational efficiency by adopting IPA-free resin removal methods.

AUX-400-RINSE provides a significant reduction in overall safety hazards due to the high potential for IPA fumes to spontaneously combust at low temperatures, which poses a risk of injury to employees and creates a hazard to the overall facility’s environment. Both chemistries used in PostProcess’ resin cleaning workflow provide increased safety. AUX-400-RINSE has a 21% lower vapor pressure than IPA, reducing flammability risks, and PLM-403-SUB offers a significantly higher flashpoint of 220°F / 104.4°C compared to IPA’s flashpoint of 53°F / 11°C.

If you’d like to learn more about an IPA-free post-processing resin removal workflow, download this white paper: Eliminating IPA in Resin Cleaning: Enhancing Safety and Efficiency in Additive Manufacturing.



Share this Article


Recent News

Nano Dimension Evaluates Desktop Metal Post-Takeover, Completes Acquisition of Markforged

Luxury Residential Resort Community in Texas to Feature 5 ICON 3D Printed Homes



Categories

3D Design

3D Printed Art

3D Printed Food

3D Printed Guns


You May Also Like

New Business: Temporary, Migratory, & Modular 3D Printed Architecture

If we look at potentially emerging 3D printing businesses, then architecture has not been fully explored. Yes, there is a lot of house 3D printing going on worldwide. From deployable...

3D Printing News Briefs, April 19, 2025: Material Extrusion Standard, Metal Powder, & More

In today’s 3D Printing News Briefs, we’re covering a proposed standard for material extrusion, before moving on to business and metal powder. We’ll end with a commercial store’s robotic 3D...

Japan Unveils World’s First 3D Printed Train Station

Japan is now home to what we believe is the world’s first train station built with 3D printing technology. Located in Arida City, just south of Osaka, the new Hatsushima...

restor3d Raises $38M to Expand 3D Printed Orthopedic Implants

Backed by $38 million in new funding, restor3d is pushing ahead with the launch of four personalized implant lines, set to roll out in 2025 and 2026. This latest venture...