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3D Systems, Inc
.
REMOVING SUPPORTS - OPTIONAL ULTRASONIC SUPPORT REMOVAL TANK
The Ultrasonic Support Removal Tank automatically removes PLA support material from ABS models . There are two methods for
removing or weakening the material .
Method
Advantages
Disadvantages
Hot Water
•
Corrosive chemicals are not used .
•
Support material requires physical force to crumble
away .
•
Support material in hidden cavities may remain if
the user is unable to reach them .
•
The process can be more lengthy .
Caustic Soda
•
Support material is quickly removed .
•
Support material hidden in cavities will be dissolved
without physical force .
•
Requires health and safety procedures .
Hot Water Method
CAUTION: This process uses hot water (approximately 80°C or 176°F) . Wear all Personal Protective Equipment
(PPE) .
CAUTION: Do not operate without water in the cleaning tank . Damage may occur .
CAUTION: Never use boiling water . Damage may occur .
CAUTION: The unit must be positioned on a flat, stable work surface. Do not tip over or move the tank during its
operation. Electrical equipment can become damaged when exposed to water or other fluids.
1 . Pour 0 .75 liters (0 .79 quarts) of water into the tank .
2 . Place the models to be cleaned into the tank .
3 . Close the lid .
4 . Connect the power supply and press the power button to turn on the tank .
5 . Set the temperature to 80
°
C (176
°
F) . Use the -5 and +5 buttons to lower or increase the temperature .
6 . Set an alarm for 48 hours .
NOTE: Do not use the timer on the tank . This is intended for the ultrasonic operation used with the Caustic Soda
method and will only run for 180 minutes .
7 . After 48 hours, remove the model from the tank using the included plastic tongs and immediately run cold water over it for 1 to 2
minutes .
NOTE: Ensure the Ultrasonic Support Removal tank has been turned off .
8 . After the model has been thoroughly washed, the PLA support material should easily crumble away .
NOTE: A blunt knife can be used to scrape the support away from the model. Additional rinsing may help flush
remaining support material fragments from the model .