Stereolithography

SLA 3D Printing

This is the 3D printing technology to choose if you want smooth surfaces and precise details.

SLA 3D Printing – Technology Overview

SLA capabilities

RequirementSpecification
Maximum build size192 x 120 x 200 mm
Standard lead time3 – 5 business days
Dimensional accuracy± 0.5% with a lower limit of ± 0.15 mm (± 0.006″)
Layer height25-100 um

 

What is SLA 3D Printing?

Stereolithography (SLA or SL; also known as stereolithography apparatus, optical fabrication, photo-solidification, or resin printing) is a sort of 3D printing technology used for layer-by-layer creation of models, prototypes, patterns, and production parts utilizing photochemical processes in which light causes chemical monomers and oligomers to cross-link to form polymers. Those polymers then make up the body of a three-dimensional solid. Stereolithography can be used to build prototypes for new items, medical models, and computer hardware, among many other things. While stereolithography is quick and can make practically any design, it is also costly.

SLA Printing materials

SLA 3D Printing material

Jewellery Design
Miniatures and Gaming
Art models
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Transform Your Ideas into Reality

Maximizing Precision with SLA 3D Printing: Your Top Questions Answered

SLA 3D printing offers several key benefits:

  • High Precision and Detail: Produces parts with fine details and smooth surfaces, ideal for intricate designs.
  • Smooth Surface Finish: Requires minimal post-processing, saving time and effort.
  • Versatility in Applications: Suitable for prototypes, dental models, jewelry, and more.
  • Material Variety: Can use various resins tailored to specific applications, including high-detail and biocompatible resins.

We offer a range of high-quality resins for SLA 3D printing, including:

  • High-Detail Resin: Ideal for detailed models and prototypes.
  • Tough Resin: Provides improved strength and impact resistance.
  • Castable Resin: Perfect for creating molds and patterns for casting.
  • Flexible Resin: Suitable for parts that require flexibility and elasticity.
  • Bio-compatible Resin: Safe for medical and dental applications.

For more information, visit HIGH DETAIL RESIN page.

SLA 3D printing is distinct from other technologies like FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling), due to its ability to produce highly detailed and smooth parts. While FDM is cost-effective and suitable for functional prototypes, SLA excels in creating fine details and smooth surfaces. SLS, on the other hand, is ideal for producing strong, durable parts with complex geometries but lacks the surface finish quality of SLA.

Our standard lead time for SLA 3D printed parts is 3-5 business days. However, this can vary depending on the project’s complexity and current order volume. For urgent requests, please contact us directly to discuss expedited options. We strive to meet your deadlines while ensuring the highest quality.

SLA 3D printing is widely used across various industries for numerous applications, including:

  • High-detail prototypes: Creating prototypes with fine details and smooth surfaces for design validation and functional testing.
  • Medical models: Producing highly accurate anatomical models for surgical planning, medical training, and patient communication.
  • Dental applications: Fabricating dental models, custom trays, and aligners with high precision.
  • Jewelry: Crafting detailed jewelry prototypes and casting patterns with intricate designs.
  • Miniatures and collectibles: Producing high-quality miniatures, figurines, and collectibles with excellent detail and finish.
  • Functional parts: Manufacturing small, precise functional components for various industrial applications.

Yes, SLA 3D printing allows for batch printing multiple parts simultaneously, as long as they fit within the build volume. This can be particularly beneficial for small parts or when producing multiple identical items. By optimizing the layout in the build space, you can save time and reduce printing costs.

Standard SLA resin is designed for general-purpose use, offering a good balance of detail and mechanical properties. High-detail resin, on the other hand, is formulated to capture extremely fine details and produce smooth surfaces, making it ideal for applications requiring intricate designs, such as jewelry, miniatures, and detailed prototypes. The high-detail resin achieves this by having a lower viscosity and higher resolution curing capabilities, ensuring every fine feature of the design is accurately printed.

Yes, transparent parts can be created using SLA 3D printing by using clear resin. However, achieving optical clarity requires careful post-processing, including thorough washing to remove uncured resin, curing to eliminate any remaining cloudiness, and polishing to enhance transparency. Clear SLA prints are ideal for applications like lenses, light pipes, and fluid flow models where visual inspection or light transmission is essential.

Preparing a 3D model for SLA printing involves several key steps:

  • Design Optimization: Ensure your model has adequate wall thickness and is free of unsupported overhangs.
  • File Format: Export your model in a compatible file format such as STL or STP.
  • Orientation: Orient the model to minimize supports and improve surface quality.
  • Support Structures: Add necessary support structures to stabilize the model during printing.
  • Hollowing and Drainage Holes: For larger models, hollowing out the design and adding drainage holes can save material and prevent resin trapping. Using software tools and consulting with the 3DRevolution.co.uk team can help ensure your model is optimized for the best printing results.

Choosing 3DRevolution.co.uk ensures you receive top-tier service and quality for your SLA 3D printing projects. Our advantages include:

  • Expertise: Our team has extensive experience in SLA 3D printing, ensuring your parts are produced with the highest precision and quality.
  • Material Variety: We offer a wide range of resins tailored to different applications, including high-detail, tough, and biocompatible options.
  • Customer Support: Our dedicated customer support team is always ready to assist you with design optimization, material selection, and troubleshooting.
  • Fast Turnaround: We provide quick lead times without compromising on quality, helping you meet your project deadlines efficiently.
  • Competitive Pricing: Our transparent pricing model ensures you receive the best value for your investment. Partnering with us means benefiting from our commitment to quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction.

We understand that SLA 3D printing can be new to many users, and we offer comprehensive support services to help you get started:

  • Consultation: Our experts provide personalized consultations to understand your project requirements and guide you through the process.
  • Design Assistance: We offer design review and optimization services to ensure your model is print-ready and meets all technical requirements.
  • Material Guidance: Our team helps you choose the right resin for your application, balancing performance and cost.
  • Step-by-Step Guidance: From uploading your model to final delivery, we provide clear instructions and support at each stage.
  • Educational Resources: Access our library of tutorials, guides, and FAQs to learn more about SLA 3D printing and best practices. With our support, even first-time users can achieve professional-quality results effortlessly.

Yes, we offer sample prints to help you evaluate our SLA 3D printing quality before committing to a larger order. Here’s how it works:

  • Request a Sample: Contact our team with your project details and request a sample print.
  • Material Selection: Choose from our range of resins to test the material best suited for your application.
  • Evaluate Quality: Receive your sample part and assess its quality, detail, and finish.
  • Proceed with Confidence: Once satisfied with the sample, you can proceed with your larger order knowing you’ll receive consistent, high-quality results. This service ensures you have complete confidence in our capabilities and the suitability of our materials for your project.

Getting an instant quote for your SLA 3D printing project is quick and easy with 3DRevolution.co.uk:

  • Upload Your Model: Visit our upload page and submit your 3D model file in STL or STP format.
  • Select Material and Settings: Choose your preferred resin and adjust the print settings based on your requirements.
  • Instant Quotation: Our platform will automatically generate an instant quote based on the model’s dimensions, material, and print settings.
  • Review and Order: Review the quote, make any necessary adjustments, and proceed to place your order securely online.
  • Track Your Order: After placing your order, you can track its progress and receive updates until delivery. Our streamlined process ensures you can quickly and accurately budget for your 3D printing needs, making it easier to move from concept to reality.

quote & order

Start here if you’d like to discuss a possible project or have a large or complex order which you’d prefer us to review

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