3D Printing

Stereolithography (SLA)

SLA-Stereolithography

3D printing with Stereolithography (SLA) uses UV sensitive resin layers to form 3D parts. This printing technique uses a range of materials with similar properties to ABS, Polycarbonate and Polypropylene. SLA printed prototypes are primarily used for concept models, but with new resins available yearly, this technology is now able to print working prototypes with increased durability.

SLA by Application

Today, stereolithography is used within a variety of industries. Stereolithographic printing is versatile and allows for prototypes to be printed with a variety of materials/resins. SLA printers create prototypes with a smooth surface finish directly out the machine. This is ideal for applications that require a flawless finish and for those who want to reduce their finishing time.

SLA printed parts can be easily sanded, polished, and painted.

Benefits to SLA Printing

Standard Resin

Printing with standard resins provides high resolution, strength, precision, and a smooth surface finish. This allows for greater attention to detail for intricate projects. SLA with standard materials is great for rapid prototyping, product development, and general modeling.

Medical Applications

SLA is often used for medical designs and components. In dentistry you are able to create models based on patient scans, designed for their treatment. Specific applications include, but aren't limited to: orthodontic, diagnostic, and educational.

Injection Molds/Consumer Products

When designing/printing a prototype for injection molding, consumer products, or both combined, SLA works extremely well. Some SLA resins are able to mimic injection molded plastics which allows for engineers to test toughness, durability, flexibility, and even temperature resistances.

Rapid Prototyping

Stereolithography helps product designers promptly review the feel and function of a design. Assemblies can be tested and easily changed over the course of a few days, saving hundreds if not thousands on costly tooling changes. Desktop SLA is a scalable process which allows for a variety of prototype designs to be manufactured, regardless of industry.