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3D printing is a great way to produce virtually any type of product but using the right materials for the task is essential.
Resin certainly isn’t the go-to solution when optimal strength is required, but there are certain types of resin that are more robust and stronger than traditional resins. With more and more resins becoming available, the wider variety of print-ready resins means there is likely to be a suitable option for your next project!
In this article, we will…
Standard resin can be somewhat brittle or even delicate. While this makes it ideal for printing intricate or detailed pieces, it can mean that the finished product will lack strength.
However, don’t let this deter you from using resins for an upcoming 3D print project. Specialist resins do offer increased strength and can be used for a wide variety of prints. In fact, some ‘super-strong’ resins offer double the tensile strength compared to standard resins, with some delivering 55MPa.
So, if you’re worried about using resin for a 3D print that requires strength and durability, be sure to select a resin that is manufactured to deliver increased tensile strength with a high MPa.
In many instances, yes, resin can be used for any type of 3D printing project, providing you choose the right resin.
That being said, it’s vital to consider the level of strength required to ensure safety. When resins are used for 3D prints in the industrial sector, for example, the tensile strength is carefully monitored, tested and verified in accordance with project requirements to ensure it will deliver the required durability when in use.
If you’re using a standard resin, then it’s unlikely to deliver optimal strength. This means that it isn’t the best choice for parts that will be subject to stress and/or used outdoors. If specialist ‘strong’ resin isn’t an option, then you might be better off opting for filament printing if extra strength is required.
Strength is a top priority for many 3D print projects, so don’t overlook the importance of durability and robustness when you’re planning your next print. Here, we provide some sure-fire ways to boost the strength of your prints:
First and foremost, it’s essential to choose the right material if you want to print a 3D product with increased strength or a particular MPa. For resin printing, selecting a resin that is designed to deliver increased strength is the obvious choice.
An increasing number of specialist resins are now available, so you won’t be limited in terms of colours and finishes. In fact, you’ll see an even wider range of super-strong resins coming to the market as the potential of resin printing is realised across sectors and industries.
The design and geometry of a 3D print has a significant impact on its strength, so bear this in mind if you want to increase the strength of resin prints. If you want to strengthen a particular point or area of the finished product, allocating more material to this space can be advantageous. For optimal results, computer-based topology can enable you to enhance the strength of your design with ease.
Layer height is often associated with print speeds and smooth finishes but it has an impact on strength too. Crucially, the term ‘strength’ can be used in two ways when referring to layer height:
Experts have varying views on how to achieve optimal strength with layer height. Some maintain that thinner layers offer better bonding strength, whereas others argue that thicker layers lead to increased product strength.
Resins are often used to create detailed, hollow 3D objects and, as a result, ‘infill density’ isn’t a common topic amongst resin aficionados. When you want to increase the strength of a piece, however, creating a solid 3D product will achieve the desired result.
Modifying the infill density can also be a savvy way to increase the strength of your resin pieces – providing your 3D resin printer allows you to do so. Although infill density adjustment options are common on FDM slicers, they are less frequently incorporated into resin slicers. Check whether your equipment facilitates infill density modification and, if it does, be sure to use it to your advantage!
Check out our guide to the best 3D resin printers to ensure you find a printer that matches your project requirements.
Traditionally, FDM prints are stronger than resin – but this isn’t always the case. It depends on the specific types of resins and plastics to determine which is stronger.
In some studies, ‘strong’ resin has outperformed ASA, ABS and PP in hook strength, although PLA, PA and PTEG did offer even higher strength that the resin.
So, there’s no longer a clear-cut answer to whether resin or FDM 3D prints are stronger. Instead, it’s important to assess the specific type of resin or plastic to determine which offers the most strength.
→ Explore our collection of 3D printer filament.
→ Explore our collection of 3D printer resin.
If you’re unsure whether you should use filament or resin for your project, check out our blog on the key differences between FDM and resin printers.
Standard resin is great for a wide variety of 3D projects. When you want to create intricate objects or prototypes, for example, or ensure a super-smooth finish, standard resin will be the natural choice. However, there are instances in which added strength can enhance the performance of a 3D product.
In dentistry, for example, strong resin can be used to create gum shields, moulds or crowns, while high-temperature resins are already being used throughout the industrial sector. Additionally, castable resins are ideal for jewellery, particularly when a combination of strength and intricacy is required.
From finding the right 3D printer and choosing the best materials to outsourcing your 3D prints to professionals, we’re here to help you achieve optimal results
To find out more, contact the Pro3DShop team via info@pro3dshop.com or our web contact form by clicking here.
