Stereolithography (SLA)

Lifecycle

Lead Time

Materials

Resolution

For visual applications, Prototypes for limited functional testing
3-5 days
Standard Resin, Tough Resin Heat resistant Resin, Durable Resin, Clear Resin, Castable Resin, Accura 60, Accura 25
50-100 μm

About the Process

Stereolithography (SLA) is an additive manufacturing process that belongs to the Vat Photopolymerization family. In SLA, an object is created by selectively curing a polymer resin layer-by-layer using an ultraviolet (UV) laser beam. The materials used in SLA are photosensitive thermoset polymers that come in a liquid form.

SLA is famous for being the first 3D Printing technology: its inventor patented the technology back in 1986. If parts of very high accuracy or smooth surface finish are needed, SLA is the most cost-effective 3D printing technology available. Best results are achieved when the designer takes advantage of the benefits and limitations of the manufacturing

SLA has many common characteristics with Direct Light Processing (DLP), another Vat Photopolymerization 3D printing technology. For simplicity, the two technologies can be treated as equals.

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Our SLA 3D printing service

Our SLA 3D printing machines allow us to rapidly print your high-detailed prototypes.. Simply upload your parts, get a quote, and go into production in less than 5 minutes.

Our Capabilities

Requirement

Specification

Maximum build size

650 × 600 × 400 mm

Standard lead time

2-3 working days

Dimensional accuracy

± 0.25% with a lower limit of ± 0.15 mm

Layer height

50-100 μm
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Our SLA Manufacturing standards

We manufacture your parts according to strict manufacturing standards. A verification of these requirements is included in our inspection report that is shipped with every order on request.

  • A dimensional accuracy of ± 0.25% with a lower limit of ± 0.15 mm

  • Parts are fully cured to material manufacturer specifications before shipping.

  • Hollow sections are fully drained of excess resin.

  • All support material is nibbed and removed. Support nibs must are sanded smooth.

Explore our 3D printing service materials

Materials for every type of additive manufacturing project. From precision prototypes to end-use parts.

Design Recommendations

Min Feature Size

Tolerance

Min Wall Thickness

Min Hole Diameter

Min Gaps for Mating Parts

0.8 mm
± 0.25% with a lower limit of ± 0.15 mm
1 – 3 mm (depending on part dimensions)
1 mm
0.1 mm minimum; 0.2 mm to ensure fit

Cost Saving Tips

1. Cut large models into multiple smaller parts, to fit on a smaller, less expensive machines.
2. Reduce the amount of support material required by overhangs and special orientations.
Design for Manufacturing Tips

We manufacture your parts according to strict manufacturing standards. A verification of these requirements is included in our inspection report that is shipped with every order on request.

  • No internal cavities

  • Gaps for mating parts: 0.1mm off of each wall

  • Ribbing helps avoid warping on long, flat parts