Read our Wanhao Boxman-1 UV LED Curing Chamber review to find out what to expect with the working and performance of this resin 3D model post-processing accessory.
The Wanhao Boxman-1 UV curing chamber is a UV camera that is used for resin 3D model post-processing, i.e., providing additional exposure to make models stronger. This is our review of the UV curing station.
With the advent of budget resin 3D printers, the question of finding budget accessories and additional equipment has become relevant.
If desired and with a sufficient amount of time, many tasks can be solved on their own without resorting to buying additional accessories. For example, to wash models, it is not necessary to use an ultrasonic bath You can wash with alcohol and soft brushes. However, improvising illumination for the model will be challenging.
UV nail dryers have become a solution for many 3D printing hobbyists. However, they do always produce high-quality additional lighting. Some models made from particular resins have to be left overnight or dried all day.
There are also size restrictions (dryers are suitable only for very small models), and they cannot provide exposure from all sides. It is also not always possible to “dry up” the model in the sun, especially during the cold season.
Therefore, the release of UV cameras by many resin 3D printers manufacturers is welcome.
The prices for UV boxes vary. For some brands, the prices are nearly the same or even more expensive than the cost of the printer. However, the Wanhao Boxman-1 is a budget product when we compare it to other UV cameras.
Let’s take a closer look at Boxman-1.
Wanhao Boxman-1 Curing Box Review
BUY ON WANHAO STOREPurpose of the UV Chamber
A resin 3D printer produces a “sticky” model that needs post-processing. First, you need to rinse the model in isopropyl alcohol and then provide additional exposure.
The UV camera allows you to increase the surface hardness of the model and, therefore, its durability. The model’s strength also increases to some extent. Also, if you want the model to show all the mechanical properties of the resin, you need to perform additional curing.
Appearance
The Boxman-1 is made in a metal case and looks a bit like a microwave.
The door is held on secure fittings.
There are handles on both sides of the curing box for easy transport.
Just above the door, there is a small touch screen for controlling the UV camera.
At the top, there are 4 fans with carbon filters for cooling the LED arrays.
In front, there is a viewing window with glass that does not allow UV radiation to pass through.
The Boxman-1 looks simple but is also reliable.
Specifications
| Light source | 4 UV LED arrays |
| Power | 120 watts |
| Voltage | 110V/220V (switchable) |
| Device weight | 14.5 kg |
| Wavelength | 405 nm |
| The size | 430 x 300 *x 350 mm |
| Curing area | 320 x 200 x 20o mm |
| LCD touch screen | 576 x 432 mm |
| Fan size | 85 x 85 x 10mm |
| Certification | CE, FCC |
| Viewing window | 150 x 6o mm |
| LED warranty | 2000 hours – wear 30%; 5000 hours – 50% wear |
Just like most of the most popular resin printers, the Wanhao UV camera illuminates models at 405 nm.
The curing area is quite large at 320 x 200 x 20o mm. The size is large enough to allow you to light one or two large models, or many small models at once.
How it Works
Now let’s figure out how the UV camera works.
All interior walls of the Boxman-1 are mirrored.
The table on which the models are placed is made of transparent glass. The table pillars are also transparent. This is done so that the models are exposed from all sides.
In theory, you can make additional glass tables with stands yourself and light up low models in several tiers.
On top of the inside of the camera, there are 4 UV matrices with LEDs that look like the matrices from Wanhao D7. These LEDs also produce exposure of models.
Power On and Control
Learning how to use the Wanhao Boxman-1 is not difficult. Simply plug in the power cable and press the button on the back. The display will turn on, which means that the camera is ready for use.
The display shows the preset exposure time, the settings menu, and the Start button.
In the settings menu, you can set the required exposure time. Usually, 5-10 minutes is enough. However, the time can be longer depending on the model.
You can pause or stop the exposure before the set time.
Do not open the door during illumination. There are no opening sensors or a door blocker installed there when the device is running. Therefore, the matrices continue to shine even when the door is open. Therefore, make sure children are not around when using the UV curing station. [/su_note}
Conclusion
We used Wanhao Boxman-1 for additional illumination of models made from different resins. All the models were ready in 5-7 minutes. For larger size models, the curing time will take a little more time.
The UV camera is very simple to use. The instructions for starting up the camera fit one page. The other pages cover the features of the station and the safety measures.
Previously, we used nail dryers for additional illumination. Of course, using a specialized device is easier, more reliable and faster.
The Boxman-1 is a reliable device with good ergonomics. It doesn't have any unnecessary features or functions. This unit copes with its tasks and is quite affordable compared to other UV curing stations.
BUY ON WANHAO STORE
