FAQ
Is the printer and software difficult to operate for inexperienced users?
During the development of the Dreve version of the Sonic XL 4K, the focus was particularly on the operability and user-friendliness of the device. We put a lot of effort into this in order to streamline and simplify what we see as cumbersome processes in the series version. Getting started with 3D printing with the Sonic XL 4K in the Dreve version is supported by our Quickstart section on this website. If you need further assistance please don't hesitate to contact us at phrozen@dreve.de.
What can be built with the printer?
The aim of developing the Dreve version was to provide the user with our complete portfolio of 3D printing materials for processing. Even with new materials, the focus is on ensuring that an optimised print profile is available for the launch of the material and is integrated into the software. Under the "Profiles" section, this website also breaks down exactly which material and which version of the print profile can ideally be used for the respective application.
What equipment other than the printer is needed to produce a medical device?
To manufacture medical devices, it is important to follow the process described in the material's instructions. For cleaning, we recommend an ultrasonic device that cleans the components with isopropanol.
dentamidshop.dreve.de/dentamidde/bandelin-rk-100-h
The subsequent post-curing can be optimally carried out in a nitrogen atmosphere in the Dreve PCU LED N2.
Can burn-out parts also be printed?
For burn-out components we offer our FotoDent® cast material, which has of course been qualified for our printer. The print profile can be selected in the software.
How are the manufactured components cleaned?
Excess resin from the printing process adheres to printed components and must be washed off before post-curing. This cleaning step is described in the instructions for the respective material and usually involves cleaning in isopropanol followed by drying with compressed air. After cleaning, the components must be post-cured so that the final material properties can be set.
What is the advantage over an SLA printer?
The printing principle of the SLA printer is based on a laser dot that is deflected via a mirror system and thus "records" each layer to be printed on the building platform. Especially with massive structures, the printer needs a lot of time because the laser has to reach all areas to be printed. The mirror system is a complex mechanical system that deflects the laser dot to the areas to be printed with micrometre precision. The LCD printer has no moving parts other than the z-axis, which drastically reduces the need for repairs. In addition, the entire build platform is exposed simultaneously, making the print speed completely independent of platform occupancy.
Is special software required for operation?
To prepare components for printing on the Phrozen Sonic XL 4K in the Dreve version, the "Dreve ElementS" software is required. Both the installation file and a licence to activate the software on up to two computers are included with the printer.
How do I make a medical device?
Some of our resins are materials that can be used to make biocompatible medical devices. In order to achieve this biocompatibility, it is important to carry out the process exactly as specified in the material's instructions. If these are followed, it can be guaranteed that the final product is a biocompatible medical device.
What is the difference between a Phrozen Sonic XL 4K and the Dreve version?
The Dreve version of the Phrozen Sonic XL 4K has undergone some changes compared to the series version of the device. On the hardware side, for example, the build platform has been changed, resulting in optimal adhesion properties for the components. Due to the harder material, it is significantly less subject to wear than the series version. In addition to the hardware changes, some software changes were made that positively influence the user-friendliness and perfect the printing result.
What do I have to consider when changing the material?
With the Dreve version of the Phrozen Sonic XL 4K, all materials of the FotoDent® series can be processed. Since the different resins are very different in terms of their composition and, not least, their colour, we recommend using a separate tray for each material. This minimises the cleaning effort that would otherwise be required for changing materials when using only one tray.
In addition, we recommend completely dismantling the building platform when changing materials in order to remove resin that has flowed into cavities and not to contaminate the resin to be processed afterwards. As a conclusion of the cleaning process, a recalibration of the platform is then necessary.
Tip: Use our vat storage cabinet for storage for vats filled with resin!
https://dentamidshop.dreve.de/dentamidde/wannenlagerungsschrank-5856.html
I bought a Phrozen Sonic XL 4K. Can I have it converted to the Dreve version?
Yes! All Phrozen Sonic XL 4K units can be modified to our standard by us at Dreve. Please contact us for an individual offer!
How do I replace the film of the resin tray?
The foil of the tray can be replaced using the Allen key supplied with the printer. You also need the replacement foil (D3502). Please clean the tray before replacing the film. To start the replacement, place the tray with the bottom side in front of you and loosen all visible screws. After loosening the screws, the metal frame holding the foil can be removed from the resin tray. Now loosen all the screws that hold the two metal frames together and clamp the film. The old film can then be removed.
Now place the new film between the two metal frames and carefully place the cleaned building platform in the middle of the foil to fix it loosely between the two frames. You can then use a pointed object to pre-punch the holes for the screws and tighten the screws diagonally. As soon as all the screws for fixing the two metal frames to each other have been tightened, the film can be put back into the resin tray. Now pre-punch all the holes for fixing the frame in the vat and screw in all the screws until you feel resistance. In order to stretch the film evenly, we recommend tightening all screws diagonally staggered by one turn each until all screws are completely screwed in. The vat is now ready for use again.
The build job cannot be transferred to the printer (error message: No connection to the printer is possible). What could be the reason?
1. The printer’s IP address is not yet firmly assigned to the corresponding slicing software. Thus, the software basically does not know where to send the created data. This is how to proceed: The printer’s IP address can be found in the upper left corner of the printer's touchscreen if it has been integrated into a network. Use this IP address to send a created print job to the printer and permanently assign this IP to the printer created in the slicing software. To do this, go to File -> Configuration -> Machines, select the IP address and save it permanently.
2. A similar error message appears when the printer's data memory is full. To delete print jobs (and thus create more memory again), you can:
1. Access the printer's web interface and delete jobs one at a time under "PLATES" or
2. Click on "PRINT" on the printer's touchscreen, select a print job and then delete it.
To prevent the memory from filling up too quickly, you can perform the described steps periodically with completed print jobs. In addition, you can select the "EXPAND SD" function under "SETUP" on the printer's touchscreen. This ensures that the entire 64GB of memory on the SD card can be used to store print jobs.
What can I do to find the cause of a failed print job?
The Dreve version of the Phrozen Sonic XL 4K can handle all applications described in detail under the "Profiles" section without any problems. If a print job does fail, the following points can help you:
1. Am I using the correct software version? You can find the current version under "Downloads".
2. Is the correct firmware installed on the printer? You can read the firmware installed on the printer in the upper left corner of the printer's display. The current versions are v1.61 and v1.62.
3. Is the correct lightintensity set? The correct value for your printer is noted on the service card that comes with the printer. To check this in the printer, click on "Setup" in the printer display and then on "Light".
4. Is the z-axis/platform correctly calibrated? A force applied to the build platform or moving the printer may require a calibration of the build platform. A video on how to calibrate correctly can be found under the "Quickstart" section.
5. Is the resin/vat clean and free of residue? To clean the resin in the tray, you can use the "LCD-Test" function to cure a full layer of resin and then remove it from the tray. Any residue will be bound in this layer and can be removed from the vat.
6. Are the explanations of the profiles on the website followed? Please familiarise yourself with the explanations for the material you are using under the "Profiles" section. The explanations there can help you to align and place your models in an ideal way.
7. Is the right profile selected for the resin you are using? Make sure that the tray is filled with the correct material before starting the print job.
If a print job cannot be completed without errors despite these recommendations, do not hesitate to contact our support at phrozen@dreve.de!
Can a material be processed that is not included in the list of print profiles?
The Dreve version of the Sonic XL 4K is not a closed system. To process other materials, you can create an additional Phrozen Sonic XL 4K printer in the software and create your own print profiles. Please note that our support only refers to our printer with our print profiles.
Which is the right material for my intended application?
All our 3D printing resins have a specific intended use, which is described in the instructions and on the label of the material. Especially when manufacturing biocompatible medical devices, it is important to use materials exactly according to their intended purpose in order to comply with regulatory requirements. If you are unclear about the choice of material, we will be happy to advise you at any time!
Please contact vertrieb.dentamid@dreve.de or phrozen@dreve.de at any time!
How long is the warranty for the unit?
The warranty is valid for 12 months. The LCD screen, as a wearing part, is excluded from this. A warranty of 3 months applies here.
Can I have my Sonic XL 4K qualified by Dreve repaired in the event of a defect?
It is a matter of course for us that we are always at your side with our support in case of questions and possible difficulties. If a problem cannot be solved and there is a defect in the device, we would also like to offer you a competent solution. For this reason, we have set up a Repair Centre, which enables us to fix any defects that may occur and to restore any printer to perfect condition. For the duration of the repair, it is possible to obtain a loan unit. Please contact us for individual processing!
How do I return a defective device?
Repatriation Guide
Our experts
DIY: Having decided for 3D printing is an innovative step for your workflow. However, sometimes especially the implementation and getting started can be challenging, not only for beginners. Our experts for dental additive manufacturing and 3D print are glad to support you on your way. They guide you through the process so that you will succeed and get your parts printed.
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