3D PRINTING TECHNOLOGY

Stereolithography (SLA)

The gold standard for achieving unparalleled detail, accuracy, and smooth surfaces in 3D printed parts. Bring your most intricate designs to life with our SLA service.

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A sample part made from clear SLA resin showcasing its clarity

The Process: Curing Resin with Light

SLA is a vat photopolymerization process. It begins with a tank (vat) filled with liquid UV-curable resin (photopolymer). A build platform is submerged into the resin, and a highly precise UV laser beam draws the first layer of the 3D model onto the surface of the resin, causing it to solidify.

The platform then lowers slightly, and a recoater blade sweeps a new layer of fresh resin across the surface. The laser then draws the next layer. This process repeats, layer by layer, until the entire part is formed. After printing, the part is cleaned in a solvent to remove excess resin and then post-cured in a UV oven to achieve its final strength and stability.

A comparison showing a clear SLA part after polishing

Key Advantages of SLA

Fine Feature Detail

The small spot size of the UV laser allows for the creation of incredibly intricate features and sharp, crisp details that other technologies cannot replicate.

Smooth Surface Finish

SLA parts have the smoothest as-printed surface finish of any 3D printing process, making them ideal for visual models that require an injection-molded look.

Material Versatility

A wide range of resins are available, offering properties that mimic standard plastics, including options for toughness, flexibility, high temperatures, and optical clarity.

SLA Materials and Ideal Applications

Common Resins

Standard Resin: Excellent for high-detail visual prototypes with a smooth finish.
Clear Resin: Optically transparent, perfect for lenses, light pipes, and microfluidic devices.
Tough & Durable Resins: Engineered to withstand mechanical stress, mimicking the properties of ABS and PEEK.
High-Temp Resin: Offers a high heat deflection temperature, suitable for molds, inserts, and hot air/fluid flow applications.

Best-Fit Applications

Form and Fit Prototyping: Verify the look, feel, and assembly of your designs with high-fidelity models.
Presentation Models: Create stunning marketing models and concept mockups.
Master Patterns: Use SLA parts as master patterns for investment casting and vacuum casting (urethane casting).
Jigs and Fixtures: Quickly produce custom, precise manufacturing aids.

SLA Technology FAQ

How strong are SLA parts?

Standard SLA resins are excellent for visual models but can be brittle. However, we offer a range of engineering-grade "Tough" or "Durable" resins that simulate the mechanical properties of production plastics like ABS and PP, making them suitable for functional testing.

Do SLA parts require support structures?

Yes, SLA parts require support structures to anchor them to the build platform and support overhanging features during the printing process. These supports are carefully removed after printing, and the contact points are sanded smooth.

Can SLA parts be post-processed?

Absolutely. SLA parts are highly suitable for various post-processing techniques, including sanding, painting, polishing for optical clarity, and plating to give them a metallic appearance.