# RepRapMicron uses fiber optics for micro-scale resin printing

> **Key takeaway:** The RepRapMicron project has developed a PIKA UV Head that uses fiber optics to achieve 3D printing resolutions down to 9 µm.

**Published:** 2026-10-24T02:00:14+00:00 
**Source:** Hackaday Hardware 
**Category:** open-hardware 
**Canonical URL:** https://fosswire.org/news/reprapmicron-uses-fiber-optics-for-micro-scale-resin-printin.html 

## Summary
The RepRapMicron (µRepRap) project has introduced the PIKA UV Head, a specialized print head designed for microscopic 3D printing. By combining off-the-shelf optical fiber with UV LED modules, the system can cure resin in-situ to create extremely small structures. Recent demonstrations include a 0.5 mm Benchy boat printed with a resolution of approximately 9 µm.

## Technical details of the PIKA UV Head
- Uses a **single mode fiber** optical cable (modified patch cord) to deliver light.
- Utilizes a **3W UV LED** module to cure eSun Standard Resin.
- Achieves a printing resolution of approximately **9 µm**.
- Requires standard SLA post-processing, including cleaning the part and the fiber from liquid resin.

## Why it matters
This project applies the RepRap philosophy of accessible manufacturing to the microscopic scale using relatively low-cost components.