Chitu Systems Hoopat: No Screws, No Stress – Just swap and Print

If you are into 3D printing, you probably already know that replacing the film in a conventional resin tank is one of the most dreaded maintenance tasks. Even with an electric screwdriver, removing a dozen or more tiny screws, aligning the film perfectly, and then reassembling everything without introducing dust, wrinkles, or uneven tension can be an exercise in frustration. The Chitu Systems Hoopat screwless VAT promises to solve all the common issues that can arise when replacing the PFA or ACF sheet, even making the process up to 40 times faster!

Resin tank film replacement is necessary because the release film—whether FEP, PFA, or ACF—wears down over time due to mechanical stress and UV exposure. As you print, the film flexes and stretches with each layer, and resin residue or micro-scratches can build up, impacting both print quality and success rate. Over time, this leads to adhesion issues, failed layers, or even tears in the film. To maintain consistent performance, sharp detail, and prevent damage to your printer’s LCD or resin leaks, routine film replacement is essential. Unfortunately, the process is not only time-consuming—taking at least half an hour—but also prone to errors that can ruin your prints or damage the film itself. One misaligned screw or overly tight corner can cause leaks, warping, or poor curing results. The Chitu Hoopat’s ingenious quick-release system and film-aligning bolts eliminate all the above-mentioned problems.

Resin tank sizes and designs vary from brand to brand and model to model—there is no one-size-fits-all. Chitu Systems’ Hoopat series includes three models (X3, X4, and X5), allowing compatibility with eight 3D printers from two of the most popular resin 3D printer brands: Elegoo and Anycubic.

Chitu Hoopat X4 Resin Vat review

Disclosure: I received screw-less resin VAT in a product review collaboration with ChiTuSystems. Product specs and quality may vary according to the manufacturer’s reliability, so I cannot guarantee that you will get the material that performs the same as seen in my article.

Chitu Systems is a leading name in the resin 3D printing ecosystem, known for developing high-performance hardware and software solutions that enhance the printing experience. Best recognized for their powerful ChituBox slicing software, the company also manufactures a growing lineup of 3D filaments, spare parts (such as LCD screens), and smart accessories like the new Hoopat quick-release resin vat.

Last month, Chitu contacted me through all channels—email, Instagram, and Facebook—regarding the possibility of reviewing their newest product. Since I own an Elegoo Saturn 4 Ultra, I opted for the compatible Hoopat X4.

At a glance

Alongside the resin vat, the Chitu Systems Hoopat kit includes four pre-cut film sheets (upon my request, they sent me 2× PFA and 2× ACF films), two dedicated quick-start manuals—one focused on vat assembly and the other on film installation—and a protective lid. This UV-resistant cover is designed to shield the remaining resin from dust and light exposure. It allows for safe, short-term storage directly in the vat without decanting it back into the original bottle.

Like conventional resin vats, the Chitu Hoopat has two main parts: the tank itself and a bottom plate that secures the film. Instead of using tons of screws, the Hoopat X4 has four quick-release clams and 39 film alignment bolts. If you’re unsure how effectively these flaps can secure the film without screws, consider that a similar clamping mechanism is used in underwater housings for action cameras—rated for depths of up to 50 meters, where the pressure is significantly higher. My only problem with this design is that it requires perforated films, so you can’t use any kind of FEP / ACF / PFA sheet available on the market.

While the original (stock) Elegoo Saturn 4 Ultra tank has two pouring spouts, the Hoopat X4 has only one. This shouldn’t be an issue, as having two isn’t really necessary. The tank features two MAX fill marks, and it’s recommended not to exceed this level when adding resin. I didn’t put them on a scale, but the Hoopat X4, despite its full metal design, feels lighter than the original Saturn 4 Ultra resin vat (also made of aluminum).

The Chitu Hoopat X4 fits perfectly on the Elegoo Saturn 4 Ultra and secures to the 3D printer using the stock vat screws.

Key features

• Screw-Free Design: Swap your film in just 30 seconds, saving time and effort
• Effortless Installation: No longer need the film trimmed around the edges after installation
• Consistent Tension: Uneven tension can lead to print defects, inconsistent layer bonding, and premature film wear. With our snap-on tray, each side applies consistent pressure for perfect, flawless prints
• Built to Last: Full metal construction, corrosion-resistant, ensuring durability and preventing warping or deformation, even after extended use

Is It Really That Easy and Fast to Swap the Film on the Hoopat Resin Tank?

Yes, and yes — installing the film on the Hoopat X4 was straightforward, following the steps demonstrated in ChiTu’s official installation video. The instructions were clear and easy to follow, and the overall experience was smooth and hassle-free. The film was tensioned evenly, with no problems in corners or other areas. The films are perfectly sized; you don’t need to trim them after installation.

After installing the film into the mounting frame, securing it to the resin tank in the correct sequence is crucial to ensure proper tension and alignment. Begin by fastening the latch lock buckles located on the short edges of the frame, ensuring the film remains evenly stretched and seated adequately within the frame. Once both short edges are secured, fasten the latch lock buckles on the longer sides of the frame. It is essential to avoid securing the film by the corners first (i.e., fastening one long and one short buckle), as this can result in uneven tension distribution and potential film distortion, which may negatively impact print quality and the film’s durability.

The only minor problem I encountered was that the UV sheets were not labeled according to their type (PFA or ACF). Also, it would be helpful if the two protective films of the sheets were labeled (A and B), so you know the correct order in which to remove them.

Pricing, availability, and options

As previously mentioned, the Chitu Hoopat resin tank series comprises three models, each available in PFA or ACF film bundles. The table below provides detailed pricing and 3D printer compatibility information.

If you need extra PFA or ACF films, they are available in packs of 3 and 5 on the Chitusystems online store.

PFA vs ACF 3D resin film comparison

Regarding resin 3D printing, the choice of resin vat film plays a critical role in printing. All Chitu Hoopat resin tanks are available with the two most popular types of films: PFA (Perfluoroalkoxy Alkane) and ACF (Advanced Clear Film). Both offer unique benefits depending on the specific needs of the 3D printer and the user.

As you can see in the table below, while PFA is an excellent choice for medium-duty use, providing durability and heat resistance, making it suitable for most 3D printing applications, ACF is better suited for high-resolution prints and applications requiring precise detail, thanks to its superior transparency and UV transmission.

Generally, ACF films tend to be more expensive than PFA films due to their advanced features and superior clarity. However, Chitu Systems offers both types of films at the same price point, giving you the flexibility to choose based on your specific technical requirements. Whether you prioritize durability and heat resistance or require higher transparency and precision for detailed prints, the decision becomes easier when price is not a limiting factor. This pricing approach allows users to select the most appropriate film type without worrying about additional costs, making it easier to meet the demands of different 3D printing applications.