Shenzhen Alu Rapid Prototype Precision Co., Ltd.
Industry News
SLA (Stereolithography) rapid prototyping is a 3D printing process that uses a laser to cure and solidify liquid photopolymer resin layer by layer to create precise, detailed prototypes or parts. It’s one of the earliest and most widely used additive manufacturing techniques, valued for its accuracy and smooth surface finish.
How It Works
Design: A 3D model is created using CAD software and exported as an STL file.
Slicing: The file is sliced into thin layers (typically 25-100 microns) via specialized software.
Printing:
A vat is filled with liquid photopolymer resin.
A UV laser traces each layer’s shape on the resin surface, curing and hardening it.
A build platform lowers incrementally (e.g., 0.05 mm per layer), and a blade recoats the surface with fresh resin.
The process repeats, building the part layer by layer.
Post-Processing:
The part is removed from the vat and excess resin is drained or rinsed off (often with isopropyl alcohol).
It’s cured further in a UV oven to strengthen the material.
Supports (if used) are removed, and the part may be sanded or polished for a smooth finish.
Key Characteristics
Accuracy: High precision, with tolerances as tight as ±0.01-0.05 mm, ideal for intricate details.
Surface Finish: Smooth, high-quality surfaces, often requiring minimal finishing.
Materials: Uses photopolymer resins—standard, clear, flexible, durable, or high-temperature options.
Speed: Fast for small, detailed parts, often completed in hours to a day.
Benefits
Precision: Excellent for complex geometries, fine features, and thin walls (e.g., 0.2-0.5 mm).
Versatility: Suitable for concept models, visual prototypes, and some functional testing.
Speed: Rapid turnaround, ideal for iterative design.
Finish: Produces parts ready for painting, plating, or display with little work.
Limitations
Strength: SLA parts are brittle compared to CNC-machined or injection-molded parts, limiting functional use.
Material Range: Limited to photopolymers; no metals or robust thermoplastics like in FDM or CNC.
Cost: More expensive than basic FDM 3D printing for larger parts; resin costs $50-$200 per liter.
Post-Processing: Requires cleaning, curing, and support removal, adding time and labor.
Tip: SLA is great for visual or low-load prototypes. For cheaper alternatives, consider FDM; for stronger parts, look at CNC or injection molding.