--- title: Cartridge Dispensing slug: process/cartridge-dispensing description: Optimize your Carbon two-part resin cartridge dispensing with this comprehensive document that covers setup, operation, and effective air removal techniques. docTags: createdAt: 2024-07-04T00:44:52.520Z --- :::hint{type="info"} The following information applies to the **Cox Dual-Drive Dispenser **except where noted. ::: Dispensing resin from cartridges requires the use of a compatible **dispenser.** An appropriate mixing tip is installed on the cartridge, which is then placed in the dispenser. The dispenser then simultaneously pushes out the resin components from each compartment of the cartridge. As the components move through the mixing tip, they are blended into the final resin. The mixed resin comes out of the mixing tip into the cassette and is ready for printing. ![Dispenser pushing two components through the mixing tip and into a cassette](https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/3CesIL2dYMCHPZvRjp8S0/wD4M61EZUD0R2x6owQtMq_dispenser-dispensing01.jpg "Dispenser pushing two components through the mixing tip and into a cassette") # Equipment - Cox Dual-Drive resin dispenser or legacy dispenser - Included accessories - 3 sets of cartridge clips (2 each for 1:1, 4:1, 10:1) - Stand - Adaptable ratio plates - Protective shroud - Battery - Battery charger - Carrying case - Mixing tip - 10:1 Orange - 1:1 White - Resin cartridge - Printer cassette - Or container to transfer resin from dispenser to cassette - Foil on the table is recommended if a mat is not used ![Cox Dual-Drive dispenser and accessories](https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/3CesIL2dYMCHPZvRjp8S0/hhpnMYMiBIlkHuIVyJn8N_image.png "Cox Dual-Drive dispenser and accessories") :::hint{type="info"} RPU 130 cartridges are only compatible with the Cox Dual-Drive dispenser. ::: Go to [Accessories & Supplies](docId:95TwE3ttL-5ihI6dNl4XI)** **for purchasing information on available dispensers and dispenser accessories. :::::ExpandableHeading ## Legacy Dispensers You may have a legacy dispenser: - Albion Dispenser (Domestic) - Cox Single-Drive Dispenser (International) ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem ![Albion dispenser](https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/3CesIL2dYMCHPZvRjp8S0/NY5UHbIZvi5HiKsTEJfhC_image.png "Albion dispenser") ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ![Cox Single-Drive dispenser](https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/3CesIL2dYMCHPZvRjp8S0/S-a1JOKV6rXRJZCS263a2_image.png "Cox Single-Drive dispenser") ::: :::: Speed recommendations may vary based on the dispenser. Always refer to the information specific to the resin you are using, including protocol sheets and [reference grids](docId\:UJF4K0NY4lYE74ZoHX1R-). ::::: *** ## Printable Guides ::::VerticalSplit{layout="right"} :::VerticalSplitItem Downloadable handouts are available. Print one out and use it in the lab as a quick reference guide. ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ::Image[]{src="https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/3CesIL2dYMCHPZvRjp8S0/1EnRN1D4OVw3f9h6_Xqnd_dispenser-handout-icon01.jpg" size="50" width="330" height="248" position="flex-end" showCaption="false"} ::: :::: ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem ### Cox Dual Drive Dispenser ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ::File{src="https://api.archbee.com/api/presign/uXbZOKjJTGpPhjapQ8fvM-GIITMW8CKN-2K8527KBbb-20250206-183504.pdf" label="Cox Dual-Drive Dispenser v02.21.pdf"} ::: :::: ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem ### Cox Single Drive Dispenser *Legacy device* ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ::File{src="https://api.archbee.com/api/presign/uXbZOKjJTGpPhjapQ8fvM-K2bLBCRQGsEExwiEDfs7B-20250122-181956.pdf" label="Cox Single-Drive Dispenser v03.04.pdf"} ::: :::: ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem ### Albion Single-Drive Dispenser *Legacy device* ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ::File{src="https://api.archbee.com/api/presign/uXbZOKjJTGpPhjapQ8fvM-jFXF2vixThFc-bAj1pSs--20250122-182025.pdf" label="Albion Dispenser v01.01.pdf"} ::: :::: ## Specifications ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem Cox Dual Drive Dispenser ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ::File{src="https://api.archbee.com/api/presign/xcOI3p6O5jO0MVhoHv9rO-iCGU61kFipRsz0P3cji2p-20240802-180028.pdf" label="specs-cox-dual-drive-dispenser.pdf"} ::: :::: ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem Cox Single Drive Dispenser (Legacy) ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ::File{src="https://api.archbee.com/api/presign/xcOI3p6O5jO0MVhoHv9rO-V4hKRrBawES55Xcg6NXWB-20240802-180152.pdf" label="specs-cox-resin-dispenser-eu.pdf"} ::: :::: ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem Albion Single-Drive Dispenser (Legacy) ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ::File{src="https://api.archbee.com/api/presign/xcOI3p6O5jO0MVhoHv9rO-8YnuCkcxFXCQH3tQsAIUO-20240802-175907.pdf" label="specs-albion-resin-dispenser.pdf"} ::: :::: *** # Prep Before dispensing, cover the bench with an absorbent mat or layer of foil. This will catch any drips or spills, making cleanup much easier. :::hint{type="info"} To reduce resin spills on the printer, dispense resin on the lab bench and carry the cassette to the printer. ::: ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem 1\. Ensure that the dispenser **battery** is **charged**. - Press button 2 or 3 bars must light up. - If at least 2 bars are not lit, charge the battery. ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ![Dispenser battery lights show full charge](https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/3CesIL2dYMCHPZvRjp8S0/2Kudwoq-9FEifLbYjyZc__image.png "Dispenser battery lights show full charge") ::: :::: :::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} ::::VerticalSplitItem 2\. Set the **speed **according to resin protocol* (varies per resin and per dispenser). * - Turn **the dial on top** of the dispenser to adjust the speed. :::hint{type="danger"} **Do not use higher speeds.** ::: :::: :::VerticalSplitItem ![](https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/3CesIL2dYMCHPZvRjp8S0/uvpQE2StL1aSalOs8GXtR_image.png "Cox Dual-Drive Dispenser") ::: ::::: ## Legacy Dispensers ### Albion Dispenser ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem **Check battery** - Press button and** all four bars** must light up. ::Image[]{src="https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/3CesIL2dYMCHPZvRjp8S0/ZO1AKyj-RyyTARMUqtmxd_image.png" size="80" width="600" height="600" position="center" caption="Battery lights" alt="Battery lights" showCaption="true"} ::: :::VerticalSplitItem **Set speed** - Turn the **dial **on the side of the dispenser. ::Image[]{src="https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/3CesIL2dYMCHPZvRjp8S0/TH9TXPjfhMEuRdT8c2-Lp_image.png" size="80" width="1320" height="1320" position="center" caption="Speed dial" alt="Speed dial" showCaption="true"} ::: :::: ### Cox Single-Drive Dispenser ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem **Check battery** Change to a **fully charged battery daily**. ::Image[]{src="https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/3CesIL2dYMCHPZvRjp8S0/9t6aCfQV4ZHi70_TSSCVr_image.png" size="80" width="199" height="185" position="center" caption="Battery on charger" alt="Battery on charger" showCaption="true"} ::: :::VerticalSplitItem **Set speed** Turn the **dial **on the back of the dispenser. ::Image[]{src="https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/3CesIL2dYMCHPZvRjp8S0/yzagNAYDeBHgml8zAFmpv_image.png" size="80" width="198" height="185" position="center" showCaption="false"} ::: :::: # Setup ## Install stand - Align stand, **with the taller side on the left**, viewed as shown. Position the stand at the - Position the stand at the **front-most end of the rods**, closest to the mixing tip. - **Snap onto both of the lower metal rods** ![Stand installation](https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/3CesIL2dYMCHPZvRjp8S0/EQdI5e7Uq0FXs4vffSsZ6_image.png "Stand installation") ### Printable Replacement Stand If a replacement stand is needed, a new one can be printed in RPU 130. Download the file below and print a replacement. ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem **Cox Dual Drive Dispenser Stand** ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ::File{src="https://api.archbee.com/api/presign/uXbZOKjJTGpPhjapQ8fvM-DO4ddCeWq5BJYb0ZuAc7n-20250122-184808.zip" label="cox-dual-drive-stand-rpu-130-v01.02.carbon.zip"} ::: :::: ## Install Cartridge Clips ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem - Locate the 2 clips **marked with the ratio** you need. - Snap into place, **equally spaced along the metal rails**. ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ![](https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/3CesIL2dYMCHPZvRjp8S0/fQ--hKRBwgu3es-2x_EzF_image.png) ::: :::: ### Cartridge Clip Installation Video ::embed[]{url="https://player.vimeo.com/video/703906081?dnt=1"} ## Install Ratio Plates The Cox Dual-Drive dispenser supports adaptable plate configurations for the ratios of all Carbon resins: **1:1, 4:1, 10:1. ** Refer to the chart below for the correct plate and clip sizes per resin. ### Installation ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem 1\. To remove the pre-installed plates, **turn them counterclockwise** to unscrew them from the plunger mechanism. - Use a **13 mm **wrench on the nut to assist if the plate is very tightly installed. - Ensure that the threads on the plunger mechanism are clean and free of cured or uncured resin. 2\. Align the correct plates with the **narrow** and **wide** sides of the dispenser, respectively. ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ![Ratio plates](https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/3CesIL2dYMCHPZvRjp8S0/SMa16wdqBZE8oha_jNSzg_image.png "Ratio plates") ::: :::: ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem 3\. **Screw on each plate** to the plunger rail clockwise until hand tight. 4\. Confirm that the **plunger plates are aligned flush** with one another. - This ensures that Part A or Part B in the cartridge dispense at the same time (do not exhibit lead-lag) during dispensing. - Adjust the height of the installed plates **by twisting the securing nut** forward or backward with the plate until the correct position is reached. - When the position is finalized, use a 13 mm wrench on the nut to fully tighten the plates in place. ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ![](https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/3CesIL2dYMCHPZvRjp8S0/t-qrVLLPx84ZPHcX8U0Az_image.png) ::: :::: ### Table: A\:B Ratio and Ratio Plates by Resin | **RESIN**
| **DISPENSING SPEED** | **RATIO**
**PART A:**
**PART B** | ** RATIO PLATES** | **MIXING TIP COLORS** | | --------------- | -------------------- | ------------------------------------------ | ---------------------- | --------------------- | | EPX 82 | 1 | 1:1 | A\:A | White | | SIL 30 | 3 | 1:1 | A\:A | White | | EPX 86FR | 1 | 2:1 | A\:D | White | | RPU 130 | 1 | 4:1 | B\:D | Orange | | EPU 40 | 3 | 10:1 | E\:F | Orange | | FP3D | 3 | 10:1 | E\:F | Orange | | FPU 50 | 3 | 10:1 | E\:F | Orange | | MPU 100 | 1 | 10:1 | E\:F | Orange | | RPU 70 | 1 | 10:1 | E\:F | Orange | ## Legacy Dispensers ### Albion Dispenser - The dispenser is not adaptable to multiple ratios. - 10:1 and 1:1 ratios are separate dispensers. ### Cox Single-Drive Dispenser - Adaptable plates support 1:1 and 10:1 ratios. - Install the ratio plates to match the largest plate size that fits the cartridge component size. - Ratio plates for the Cox Single-Drive are not labeled. # Operation The following video shows the technique used to dispense two-part resins from cartridges, with proper burn-off technique. Always refer to the information specific to the resin you are using, including protocol sheets and [reference grids](docId\:UJF4K0NY4lYE74ZoHX1R-). :::hint{type="info"} - Applies to all two-part resin cartridges. - Shown with the Cox Dual-Drive Dispenser. Other dispensers are similar except the tilting movement to remove bubbles. ::: ## Dispenser Operation Video *This video shows the Cox Dual Drive Dispenser.* ::embed[]{url="https://vimeo.com/1050201011?dnt=1"} :::ExpandableHeading **Video text** 1. Check dispenser - Check battery - Check speed 2. Install mixing tip per resin protocol - Remove screw cap and plug - Line up mixing tip with cartridge and push to install - Secure tip with screw cap 3. Install cartridge in dispenser - Press plunger release... - ...and pull plungers back fully - Slide in cartridge - Press plunger release and... - ...depress the plungers 4. Burn off resin per protocol - Typically resin protocol requires burn off for new cartridges. - Burn off is critical for **mechanical properties** to ensure **proper ratio mix** of the Part A & B components: - To **align the plungers** to avoid an off ratio. - To **remove air bubbles** in the cartridge. - Place the shroud over the mixing tip. - Place a foil "cup" below the mixing tip nozzle. - Press and hold the dispensing trigger. - Burn off (dispense and discard) the first **10 mL** of resin. 5. Dispense required resin amount at protocol speed. - Keep holding the dispensing trigger. 6. Cartridge removal - Release. - Press plunger release trigger while pulling back on plungers. - Slide out cartridge. - Unscrew screw cap and remove mixing tip. - A mixing tip can be reused (with the same resin only) throughout a production day within the resin's pot life. - Replace plug and screw cap. ::: ## Burn Off The burn off procedure ensures that the resin dispensed into the cassette is properly mixed and suitable for printing. The burn off procedures: - Remove air bubbles - Level plungers - Eliminate any unmixed resin from the early stages of dispensing ### Level Plungers The burn-off procedure aligns the plungers in the cartridge and requires **discarding (burning off) the first 10 mL** of resin. - The plunger ends within the cartridge packaging may be slightly out of alignment. - The dispenser naturally pushes the plungers into alignment, but the initial flow of resin will not be properly mixed as one plunger begins moving first. ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem In most cases, **the plunger ends are misaligned** in the cartridge (exaggerated for emphasis). ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ![](https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/3CesIL2dYMCHPZvRjp8S0/01th0OMFbnUIc1Jup8pO9_unlevel-plungers01.jpg) ::: :::: ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem Due to the misalignment of the plungers, parts A and B will usually begin dispensing at different slightly times, with one component coming out before the other. In this case **Part A (1)** comes out after **Part B (2)****.** **The unmixed resin needs to be burned off as it is not suited for printing.** ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ![](https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/3CesIL2dYMCHPZvRjp8S0/Hx4yN8hpIQ4sRXCrkNsM9_partsa-b-unmixed01.jpg) ::: :::: **Procedure** ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem - Create a small disposable “cup” with aluminum foil. - Pull the trigger on the dispenser and hold it until **10 mL **of resin has passed through the mixing tip into the foil. - Discard the resin-filled foil. - Continue dispensing. ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ![](https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/3CesIL2dYMCHPZvRjp8S0/juVNjLlW2ffs1lTRcHGhJ_image.png) ::: :::: ## Protective Shroud The shroud is installed **over the mixing tip** to keep the mixing tip from swelling during dispensing. The clear plastic of the mixing tip can be pushed outwards by the resin, thus preventing the resin from fully mixing within the internal plastic mixers. - The shroud is required when using the Cox Dual-Drive and the Cox Single-Drive dispensers at **speeds greater than 1.** - For the Albion Dispenser, the shroud is not necessary. If used, it will not affect results. ![Place shroud over mixing tip before dispensing](https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/3CesIL2dYMCHPZvRjp8S0/P8QeGZvtReG4HaELwH3nK_shroud-on-tip01.jpg "Place shroud over mixing tip before dispensing") ### Printable Shroud If replacement or additional shrouds are needed, they can be printed in UMA 90. Download M1 and M2 .carbon files below. ::File{src="https://api.archbee.com/api/presign/uXbZOKjJTGpPhjapQ8fvM-c7g1s1a7WcfGSIJEdAEq3-20250122-213014.zip" label="shroud-uma90.zip"}