What is SLA (Stereolithography)

SLA Printers use an ultraviolet laser to precisely cure photopolymer cross-sections, transforming them from liquid to solid. Parts are built directly from CAD data, layer-by-layer into prototypes, investment casting patterns, tools, and end-use parts. 

Once the SLA printing process is complete, SLA parts are cleaned in a solvent solution to remove any residual uncured resin from the part surface. Cleaned parts are then cured in a UV oven. 

Materials

Typical Uses

Tolerances on SLA parts are typically less than 0.05 millimeters, making it an excellent choice when precision is your top priority. Delivering the smoothest surface finish of any additive manufacturing process, the quality of SLA parts makes this versatile technology great for

  • Master patterns for vacuum casting

  • Patterns for Urethane casting

  • Functional prototypes and models

  • High clarity, transparent products and components

  • Complex assemblies

  • Under the hood components

  • Rapid production of flow test rigs

  • Jigs & fixtures

Properties

  • Rigid

    • Similar aesthetics and properties to injection-molded ABS.

  • Tough & Durable

    • Look and feel of polypropylene.

  • Clear

    • Including the industry's highest clarity material for polycarbonate-like parts.

  • Castable

    • Expendable resins specifically formulated for QuickCast® sacrificial patterns for investment casting.

Typical 3D-Printing Finishing Options

  • Standard Finish

    • Standard 3D Printing finish (as printed)

    • Supports removed, light sanding to 220 of support faces and/or bead blast.

  • Mold Ready

    • Remove supports, remove all exterior surface build lines

    • Sand to 320 and/or bead blast

  • Painted

    • Remove supports and layer lines on visible surfaces (A-surfaces)

    • Sand to 320 and/or bead blast entire part.

    • Paint

  • Engineering Clear

    • Remove supports, sand to 320 and/or bead blast,

    • Remove all exterior build lines

    • Apply clear coat

  • Optically Clear

    • Remove supports, sand to 600

    • Remove all exterior build lines

    • High gloss finish or water clear

    • Seal with clear coat

  • Custom Finishes

    • Let us know what you need!