Cleaning Printed Parts

Printed parts must be cleaned with solvents to ensure safer handling, dimensional accuracy, and preparation for post-curing. This section will describe three methods that have been proven to work best for Figure 4 part cleaning: 1. Sonication in IPA; 2. Non-flammable Sonication; and, 3. Manual Cleaning.

Necessary Cleaning Materials Chart

Equipment	Sonication in IPA	Non-flammable Sonication	Manual Cleaning
At least 1 ultrasonic unit for wash - this unit should be large enough to hold your cleaning containers (see below)	yes, explosion-proof unit required	yes	no
At least 2 containers for part baths - these should be large enough to contain the parts you intend to print. These containers can be stainless steel or glass. Plastic is not recommended for ultrasonication.	yes	yes	yes
Supply of solvent(s)	yes	yes	yes
Digital Timer	yes	yes	yes
Vented wash/squirt bottle for IPA	yes	yes	yes
Jar to store cleaning brushes	yes	yes	yes
Soft or medium bristle brushes - 1 brush included with printer	yes	yes	yes
Compressed air with air blow gun with chip guard	yes	yes	yes
Hydrometer with range or 0.70-0.81 for IPA	yes	no	yes
Hydrometer with range or 0.795-0.910 for EZ Rinse C	yes	no	no
Hydrometer with range or 1.00-1.22 for propylene carbonate	no	yes	no
500ml graduated cylinder	yes	yes	yes
Optical inspection tool, such as a microscope	yes	yes	yes
Forced-air oven (optional for part drying)	yes	yes	yes

WARNING: IPA IS A FLAMMABLE Liquid with flammable Vapors. KEEP AWAY FROM HEAT, SPARK AND OPEN FLAMES. USE WITH ADEQUATE VENTILATION. STORE AT 20-30ºC (68-86°F). DO NOT TAKE INTERNALLY. AVOID PROLONGED OR REPEATED BREATHING OF MIST OR VAPOR. liquid and vapor CAUSE IRRITATION TO EYES AND RESPIRATORY TRACT. liquid and vapor AFFECT CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM. MAY BE HARMFUL IF ABSORBED THROUGH SKIN. MAY CAUSE IRRITATION TO SKIN.

CAUTION: Consult SDS for each solvent and material type prior to use for additional personal protective equipment.

CAUTION: solvents and solvent-related trash must be disposed of according to all government regulations.