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Writer's pictureKim Kristensen

Preparing an Photon for first use

Hi here's a short guide for setting up and using an Anycubic Photon for the first time.


Be aware that this guide is a work in progress and I'm still editing it from time to time :)


Please note that I have linked to other peoples youtube videos in this guide, when I get the time for it I'll make my completely own edition of this guide.


First of all you need to unbox the machine. When you have removed it from the box you are ready for the first important step.


1 - Leveling the build plate

It is very important that the build plate is leveled correctly before use. Follow the instruction in the video below for a good result. Remember that the plate must be completely even. When calibrated you should be able to pull out the paper but not push it.

2 - FEP film & the resin vat

Check that the FEP film on the resin vat is tight and undamaged and then insert the resin vat according to the instruction in the manual.


After this it is time to pure in the resin. Make sure to shake the resin before use. The pure it in the resin vat up to the point where the edges start to curve a bit. Do not overfill it...


3 - Slicer settings

I use ChiTuBox for all my resin prints with the photon. The program can be downloaded here: https://www.chitubox.com/ Remember to set up the program for the anycubic photon in the settings under machine.


I use these settings for almost all my prints with transparent green (Anycubic) resin. I almost never experience failed prints (except when I make a mistake with the supports :)).

The support settings are actually the basic settings in Chitubox. I rotate the models so the parts with the most details are pointing up. Then I use the auto apply supports (light for small parts, medium for standard miniatures, and heavy for larger models). After this I manually look through all models and add/remove supports as required. A bit time consuming but it works really well for me. I usualy also hollow the models using the hollow function in ChiTuBox.

Post Print Process

I use a plastic spatula to remove the prints from the bed. Never use metal. This is easy if you have used supports as they make a small v shaped edge the spatula can be pushed under. After I remove the models from the bed I break off the supports using a small clipper. This is best as the material isn't too hard so it won't make large dents in the model when it break off. After all supports has been removed I wash the model in IPA with an old toothbrush. Then I put the model in a new IPA solution and stir it a bit around for a minute or so before cleaning it in water. Leave it to dry and then cure it with UV light.


This video doesn't completely follow the way I do it, but it gives a good idea about the process.


An extra video:

Take a look at this video, there are some helpful knowledge in it.


Extra tips:

Add Kapton tape to the edges of the LCD

Extra Advice:

  • Never use anything than a plastic spatula to remove hardened resin on the FEP film.

  • Replace the FEP film if you have any holes or think that you have any holes in it. The cleanup after a spill is very time consuming and you might even damage the LCD if you are not carefull

  • Use IPA for cleaning.

  • Use a good USB pen, the one supplied with the printer can cause issues.

  • Always use glows when working with Resin

Changing FEP Film

Cleaning the resin vat


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