Sunlight vs DIY Curing Stations vs Commercial Machines
Resin 3D printing doesn’t end when your model is removed from the build plate—proper curing is crucial to ensure your prints achieve the desired strength, durability, and final properties. Curing refers to the process of exposing your printed parts to ultraviolet (UV) light, which fully hardens the resin and eliminates any remaining tackiness.
In this guide, we’ll explore the different methods of curing resin prints, including:
- Using natural sunlight,
- Creating your own DIY curing station,
- Investing in a commercial curing machine,
- And how each method affects the final quality of your prints.
Why is Curing Important?
Curing helps:
- Fully harden the resin, increasing its strength and durability.
- Improve surface smoothness and prevent deformation.
- Ensure that the resin reaches its maximum chemical stability and resistance.
- Reduce potential health risks by fully solidifying uncured material.
Failing to properly cure your prints can leave them brittle, sticky, or susceptible to environmental damage.
Curing Methods: Pros and Cons
Each curing method has its advantages and limitations. Let’s examine the differences between using sunlight, DIY curing setups, and commercial curing stations.
1. Curing with Sunlight
One of the most accessible and cost-effective curing methods is using natural sunlight. UV rays from the sun will gradually cure the resin, but the process can be inconsistent due to varying sunlight conditions.
How to Cure with Sunlight:
- Place the print in direct sunlight on a clear day.
- Rotate it periodically to ensure even exposure.
- Cure for several hours depending on the strength of the sun.
Pros:
- Free and readily available.
- No additional equipment required.
- Environmentally friendly.
Cons:
- Inconsistent curing: Sunlight intensity changes throughout the day.
- Uneven results: Shadows or indirect light may cause certain areas to under-cure.
- Extended time: Can take hours to achieve full curing.
- Weather dependent: Not feasible during cloudy or rainy days.
Tip: The less homogeneous the sunlight exposure, the worse the curing results—leading to uneven strength and potential weak spots in the print.
2. DIY UV Curing Station
A DIY curing station allows you to control the curing process more effectively by using affordable UV light sources, such as UV LED strips or nail curing lamps. This approach offers better consistency than sunlight and is a budget-friendly alternative to commercial curing machines.
How to Create a DIY Curing Station:
- Purchase a UV light source (e.g., 405nm UV LED strips or lamps).
- Line a container or a reflective box (e.g., an aluminum-lined box) to maximize light exposure.
- Place the print on a rotating stand to ensure uniform exposure.
- Cure the print for 5-15 minutes depending on the resin type.
Pros:
- Affordable and customizable.
- More consistent curing compared to sunlight.
- Faster curing times (typically under 20 minutes).
- Can be used indoors regardless of weather.
Cons:
- Requires assembly and some technical knowledge.
- Risk of uneven curing if not properly designed (e.g., weak UV sources or improper placement).
- May require ventilation if heat buildup occurs.
Tip: Adding a rotating platform or turntable will improve uniform curing results and avoid over-curing certain spots.
3. Commercial UV Curing Machines
Commercial UV curing machines, such as the Anycubic Wash & Cure or Elegoo Mercury, provide a professional, hassle-free curing experience. These machines are designed to deliver homogeneous exposure with built-in UV lights and rotating platforms for optimal results.
How Commercial Curing Machines Work:
- Place the cleaned print inside the chamber.
- Set the timer (typically 2-10 minutes).
- The UV lights and rotating platform ensure even curing.
Pros:
- Highly consistent and efficient curing.
- Built-in features like auto-rotation and timed curing cycles.
- Minimal effort required.
- Faster curing times compared to DIY setups.
- Professional-quality results, improving mechanical properties.
Cons:
- More expensive than DIY solutions.
- Limited curing chamber size (may not fit large models).
- Requires storage space.
Tip: If you’re printing frequently or with high detail, investing in a commercial curing machine will save time and effort while ensuring optimal quality.
Comparison of Curing Methods: Which One Should You Choose?
| Method | Cost | Curing Time | Consistency | Ease of Use | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunlight | Free | Several hours | Low | Easy | Occasional prints, budget users |
| DIY Curing Box | Low-Medium | 10-30 minutes | Moderate | Moderate | Hobbyists looking for an affordable solution |
| Commercial Machine | Medium-High | 5-15 minutes | High | Very Easy | Professionals and frequent users |
Signs of Improper Curing
Regardless of the method you choose, it’s important to recognize the signs of incomplete or excessive curing:
Under-cured prints (Not enough exposure):
- Sticky or tacky surfaces.
- Weak structural integrity.
- Susceptible to warping or deformation.
Over-cured prints (Too much exposure):
- Brittle and fragile structure.
- Yellowing or discoloration.
- Reduced flexibility and strength.
Tips for Better Curing Results
- Ensure full cleaning before curing to remove any residual uncured resin.
- Rotate the model during curing to achieve even exposure.
- Choose the right wavelength (405nm) for your resin type to avoid under/over curing.
- Don’t overdo it – excessive UV exposure can make prints brittle.
- Check your manufacturer’s guidelines for recommended curing times.
Conclusion
Curing is an essential step in resin 3D printing that ensures durability, mechanical strength, and a professional finish. Whether you choose the natural approach of sunlight, a DIY curing station, or invest in a commercial curing machine, the key is to achieve consistent and even exposure.
For occasional hobbyists, sunlight or DIY solutions can work well, but if you’re looking for the best results with minimal effort, a commercial curing machine is the way to go.
Which curing method do you use for your prints? Share your experience in the comments below!
Adeptus Printicus 
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