Post-processing resin prints is faster and more consistent with a reliable washing and curing station. This article reviews five top picks that balance capacity, curing uniformity, and ease of use. Each product is evaluated on size, efficiency, and safety features to help you choose the right setup for LCD/DLP/SLA printers.
Summary of selected products
| Product | Brand | Max Cleaning Size | Max Curing Size | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anycubic Wash & Cure 3.0 | ANYCUBIC | 165 x 100 x 180 mm | 160 x 180 mm | Enhanced uniformity with flexicure gooseneck light |
| ELEGOO Mercury Plus 2.0 | ELEGOO | 180 x 121 x 153 mm | Ø200 x 260 mm | Dual UV bands, 360° rotating turntable |
| ELEGOO Mercury X Bundle | ELEGOO | 180 x 121 x 153 mm | Ø200 x 260 mm | Two light bars, rotating chassis |
| ELEGOO Mercury Plus 3.0 | ELEGOO | 230 x 135 x 260 mm | Ø250 x 290 mm | Larger capacity, 360° curing |
| UniFormation Cure3 Ultra | Uniformation | 362 x 200 mm | 362 x 200 mm | Fast heated drying, 360° turntable |
Anycubic Wash and Cure 3.0 2-in-1 Station
The Anycubic Wash & Cure 3.0 integrates washing and curing in one compact unit, designed for Photon Mono 4, 2, Mars series and other LCD/DLP/SLA printers. Its standout feature is a twistable gooseneck light that increases irradiation consistency, aiming to improve local curing by providing uniform exposure, particularly across complex resin surfaces. The 4L wash basin supports a cleaning volume up to 165 x 100 x 180 mm, while curing handles up to 160 x 180 mm. A double-layer cleaning basket allows flexible IPA use and height settings to reduce solvent use without compromising cleanup.
In practice, the machine emphasizes uniform curing and solvent efficiency. The improved light arrangement and lens source help deliver more even curing across the model, reducing post-processing gaps. The device also supports larger post-processing sessions by accommodating bigger models in a single pass, which can save time during batch workflows.
Key specs and considerations:
– Uniform curing with enhanced illumination
– Expanded wash and cure volumes for larger prints
– Adjustable cleaning basket heights to optimize solvent use
– Localized energy emphasis for thorough curing
ELEGOO Mercury Plus 2.0 Wash & Cure Station
The Mercury Plus 2.0 streamlines post-processing with two integrated functions: a washing module and a curing module. It uses 8x 405 nm and 8x 385 nm UV LEDs paired with a 360° rotatable platform to ensure even curing. A built-in LCD screen and touch controls simplify time-setting for washing and curing. An automatic UV safety feature blocks 99.95% of ultraviolet rays when the cover is closed, and the system halts if the cover is opened during curing, enhancing user safety and protecting eyes and skin.
The washing component features a robust cleaning action optimized for resin residues, while the curing stage delivers thorough, uniform exposure. This model is well-suited for operators who value a clear interface and predictable results. The dual-function design saves space and reduces the number of devices needed on the workbench.
Key specs and considerations:
– 2-in-1 design with dual-function workflow
– 8+8 LED combination for balanced curing
– 360° rotatable curing platform for even exposure
– Visual LCD controls for easy programming
ELEGOO Mercury X Bundle Wash & Cure
The Mercury X Bundle combines dual light bars with 14 LED lights per bar and a Fresnel lens, plus a rotating chassis to achieve even light distribution for curing. It features a sealing strip to prevent splash during cleaning and a large impeller for efficient resin washing. The setup increases the curing volume to accommodate bigger or multiple models in one cycle. The bundle design supports synchronized operation via a dedicated adapter, enabling coordinated cleaning and curing with minimal supervision.
Highlights include:
– Two light bars with broad, uniform coverage
– Sealed cleaning system to reduce resin splashing
– Large curing volume for batch post-processing
– Easy operation with synchronized clean-and-cure workflow
ELEGOO Mercury Plus 3.0 Bigger Washing & Curing Station
Mercury Plus 3.0 extends capacity with a larger cleaning area and curing chamber, designed for Saturn, Mars, and other high-volume printers. It offers a 114% increase in cleaning capacity over prior models and up to ∅250 x 290 mm curing capability. The 24 LEDs (405 nm) and a reflective mirror design ensure even 360° exposure, while the 260 mm tall curing space accommodates tall prints. This model is positioned for users who routinely post-process larger batches or single large parts in one run.
Considerations include:
– Substantial increase in cleaning and curing volumes
– 360° UV exposure with a high LED count
– Compatibility with larger resin prints and batch workflows
– Strong post-processing speed for production-scale tasks
UniFormation Cure3 Ultra 14-Inch Large Curing Station
The Cure3 Ultra is designed for large-format resin curing, offering a 14-inch curing chamber with a 360° turntable and 24 LEDs arranged to provide uniform exposure. A fast heated drying feature precedes curing to ensure prints are dry, minimizing white marks and thermal stress. The unit accommodates sizeable models (up to 362 x 200 mm) and is suitable for print farms or industrial-scale post-processing, enabling efficient batch curing with consistent results.
Key strengths include:
– Large curing volume and fast drying prior to curing
– 360° uniform irradiation with multiple LED bars
– Turntable-based exposure for even results
– Scalable solution for batch post-processing
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
When selecting a washing and curing machine, consider the following factors to match your 3D printing workflow:
- Print size and batch volume: Choose a unit that accommodates your largest prints and typical batch sizes. Larger models benefit from bigger washing tubs and curing chambers.
- Uniform curing: Look for 360° exposure, multiple LED wavelengths, and reflective surfaces to minimize shadowed areas and ensure consistent resin curing.
- Washing efficiency: A strong solvent vortex, adequate basket design, and adjustable basket heights help remove residual resin without wasting IPA.
- Safety features: Automatic UV blocking when the cover is opened, splash guards, and reliable cooling can protect users during operation.
- Ease of use: LCD/touch controls, clear timers, and intuitive interfaces reduce setup time and errors in post-processing.
- Safety and maintenance: Sealing strips, anti-splash design, and easy-to-clean surfaces reduce maintenance and solvent exposure risk.
- Energy and solvent efficiency: Systems designed to minimize IPA use while maximizing cleaning and curing efficiency offer lower operating costs.
- Compatibility: Verify compatibility with your printer models (Mars, Photon Mono, Saturn, etc.) and ensure that the mounting and power requirements fit your workspace.
Overall, the best choice depends on your production needs and space. If you frequently post-process multiple models in one cycle, a larger, all-in-one or bundle system may improve throughput. For hobby use with occasional larger prints, a mid-size option balancing capacity and cost can be ideal. Always prioritize uniform curing and safe operation to ensure resin prints reach optimal strength and finish.