The Challenge

Post-processing resin or industrial parts often involves immersion in cleaning solvents like Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA). Standard off-the-shelf baskets rarely fit the exact dimensions of deep cleaning tanks or lack the specific ergonomic features needed to allow parts to drain effectively without manual intervention. The challenge was to create a durable, chemical-resistant basket that maximizes fluid flow while providing a "hands-free" drainage solution.

The Solution

This wash basket was designed with a high-density grid pattern to allow for maximum solvent circulation around submerged parts. To improve the post-wash workflow, I integrated custom-modeled hooks on the exterior of the basket. These hooks allow the operator to raise the basket out of the solvent and hang it securely on the rim of the container, facilitating a complete "gravity drain" back into the tank before the parts move to the final drying and curing stages.

While printed in PLA for prototyping ease, the structural ribbing was designed to remain rigid even when fully loaded with parts. The design effectively eliminates the mess and waste associated with transferring dripping parts between stations.

Key Features

Material: PLA (optimized for solvent-wash prototyping)
Design Detail: Integrated hanging hooks for secondary drainage
Geometry: High-flow grid structure for efficient part immersion and cleaning
Ergonomics: Hands-free drainage to reduce chemical exposure and mess
Application: Industrial post-processing and resin part cleaning

The Result

The wash basket significantly optimized the cleaning phase of production, especially for high-volume runs like the fiber optic jackets. By allowing parts to drain back into the primary container, solvent loss was minimized and the workspace remained cleaner, demonstrating how custom 3D-printed tools can solve specific ergonomic bottlenecks in a production line.

Custom Drainage Wash Basket