¶ 1. Resin Vat
The resin vat of the Photon Mono M5s is an important component responsible for storing and supplying resin. During the use of the resin vat, some maintenance operations are required to avoid damage to the exposure screen due to damaged release film and ensure the normal operation of the printer and the quality of the material.
Vat Cleaning Video：
¶ How to Determine if Maintenance is Required
Monitoring Function:
Using the monitoring function, you could view the accumulated number of prints and layers. When the replacement cycle is reached, you will be prompted to replace the release film before the next print. You could replace the release film in a timely manner based on the actual situation to ensure print quality and success rate.
Print Failure:
If a print fails, you could use the Vat Cleaning function to remove any residues. This will prevent them from affecting the next print.
Extended Periods of Non-Use:
If the printer will not be used for 48 hours, it is recommended to pour the resin in the resin vat back into the resin bottle. You could use a combination of a funnel and filter paper to filter and recover the resin, or use an appropriate cover to prevent resin solidification or dust entry.
¶ How to Maintain the Resin Vat
Replacing the Release Film:
Based on the cumulative print count and layers displayed in the monitoring function, replace the release film according to the machine's prompts and your actual situation. This usually involves opening the resin vat and replacing it with a new release film.
¶ How to Make Vat Cleaning
If you find any residual solidified material or noticeable printing issues after the model is printed, you could remove the build platform and use the Vat Cleaning function of the printer to clean it. Please follow the text and images below for this operation.
¶ How to Make Resin Recovery
If there are no printing plans within 48 hours, it is recommended to pour the resin in the resin vat back into the resin bottle. Use a combination of a funnel and filter paper to filter and recover the resin, avoiding exposure to UV light.
¶ 2. Z-Axis Lead Screw Motor
During the use of the Photon Mono M5s, if you hear abnormal noises during the operation of the Z-axis lead screw motor, it may indicate a maintenance issue.
¶ How to Determine if Maintenance is Required
In general, the Z-axis lead screw motor should be regularly maintained every three months or so. If you hear unusual noises or sounds when moving the Z-axis, it is an indication that the Z-axis lead screw motor needs maintenance.
¶ How to Maintain the Z-Axis Lead Screw Motor
Tips: Avoid using lubricating oil as it can flow into the motor along the lead screw, damaging the internal structure of the motor.
Step 1: Remove Accessories
Remove the cover, resin vat, and build platform from the printer.
Step 2: Clean the Lead Screw
Use a lint-free cloth to clean the Z-axis lead screw, ensuring its surface is smooth and free of dust or impurities.
Step 3: The Z-Axis“Home”
1.Power on the printer and select "Tools" in the left menu bar.
2.Click on "Move Z-Axis" and then click on the house icon to zero the Z-axis.
Step 4: Lubricate the Lead Screw
Apply a small amount of lubricating grease along the height direction on the surface of the Z-axis lead screw. Then, select "50mm" distance and click the "upward arrow" to move the lever upward. Click 4 times to raise the lever to the top. At this point, apply a small amount of lubricating grease again on the surface of the Z-axis lead screw. Then, click the house icon to zero the Z-axis and perform one back and forth movement to ensure smooth coverage of the entire lead screw surface. Finally, wipe off any excess lubricating grease.
Step 5: Testing
After lubrication, perform some test prints to ensure smooth Z-axis movement without any abnormal noises.
¶ 3. Exposure Screen
The exposure screen of the Photon Mono M5s is an important component responsible for imaging the model at each layer. Failure to replace the release film in a timely manner may result in resin solidifying on the exposure screen, making it difficult to clean and damaging the exposure screen.
¶ How to Determine if Maintenance is Required
After completing a print, it is recommended to remove the resin vat and check for solidified resin on the anti-scratch film. If any solidified resin is present, it is advisable to replace the release film promptly. In case of print failure, use the Vat Cleaning function to clean it.
¶ How to Maintain the Exposure Screen
Prompt Replacing the Anti-scratch Film:If there are stains on the anti-scratch film that obstruct the LCD screen exposure and cannot be removed, it is recommended to replace the anti-scratch film.