[Sonic Mini] Replacing the FEP Film

Replacing the FEP film or PFA (nFEP) film is an essential maintenance task for resin 3D printers. It needs to be changed if it becomes dented, deformed, or pierced, but minor scratches and smudges on the film usually don't require replacement as they don't affect print quality.

The FEP film needs to be replaced periodically. Learn more about When to replace FEP film

1. Disassembling the Resin Vat

Initial Cleaning

• Take the vat and clean it thoroughly with sanitizing alcohol.
• Use a soft paper towel to wipe the vat and let it dry.

Preparing for Film Replacement

• Place the resin vat in an upside-down position.
• Loosen the 14 screws from the vat using a 2mm wrench.

Removing the Old FEP Film

• Remove the metal frame from the resin vat using a wrench.

• Remove the old FEP film.

Final Cleaning

• Clean the vat and frame to remove any residual resin.

To loosen stubborn screws, apply alcohol, to the screw joints and let them sit for about 15 minutes before attempting to loosen them again. For details, please refer to here.

2. Adding New FEP Film and Reassembling the Resin Vat

Applying the FEP Film

• Apply the new FEP film to the bottom of the resin vat.

• Place the metal frame on top of the FEP film.

Aligning and Creating Holes

• Hold it in place and ensure that holes and everything else are properly lined up.
• Poke holes in the FEP film with a sharp-pointed item like a wrench.

Screwing in the Metal Frame

• Tighten the 4 screws located at the corners, alternating between opposite corners to ensure even tension.
  
• Tighten the 6 screws located in the middle of each side, alternating between opposite screws.
  
• Tighten the remaining screws alternatively.
  

Final Trimming

• Using a box cutter, trim the excess FEP film as close to the vat as possible, ensuring that nothing protrudes.

Completion

• Finished.

Contact Support

By following the above instructions, you can install a new FEP for your Sonic Mini. If you find any issues, feel free to reach out to Phrozen Support or your Authorized Reseller for further assistance. When contacting Phrozen Support, kindly send some photos or videos illustrating the issue.