SLA (Stereolithography)

What is SLA 3D Printing Service?

Stereolithography (SLA) 3d printing is one of the most widely used precision additive manufacturing processes across industries worldwide. As a form of vat photopolymerization, SLA uses light to transform liquid resin into solid objects with exceptional accuracy and surface finish.

This technology was developed in the 1980s. SLA has evolved from experimental prototyping technology to a sophisticated manufacturing solution capable of producing end-use parts with mechanical properties rivalling traditional manufacturing methods.

At LAVA3DP, we recognize High precision SLA 3D printing service as a transformative force in digital manufacturing. This technology minimises the gap between conceptual design and physical reality. We’re providing On-demand SLA printing in affordable prices. Bulk SLA printing also available. We’ve the Expert 3D printing engineers who can make custom 3d printed models on your demand.

Get an instant quote NOW

How SLA 3D Printing Works?

The Photopolymerization Process

The SLA 3D printing process is a chemical process in which photosensitive liquid resin undergoes molecular transformation when exposed to specific wavelengths of light. The process begins with a construction platform submerged beneath the surface of a resin tank.

Ultraviolet laser (usually with a wavelength of 355nm or 405nm) accurately targets points on the surface of liquid resin based on digital design data, and cures and solidifies the resin layer by layer. The laser transmission system uses a galvanometer (high-precision mirror) to direct the laser on the resin surface rapidly.

Each cross-section of the 3D model is drawn by laser. As the construction platform gradually rises from the resin barrel, the subsequent layers are bonded together with the previous layer. This layer-by-layer method continues until a complete object is formed. Then it is carefully removed from the platform for post-processing.

Equipment Components
  • Light Source: CO2 genertator to make the UV laser
  • Resin Vat: Container having photopolymer liquid
  • Build Platform: Movable platform that gradually lifts or drops designs in the resin vat
  • Recoating System: Blade or wiper that ensures consistent resin forming between layers
  • Control System: Computer and slicer software that coordinate all mechanical procedures

Key Advantages of SLA 3D Printing for High-Precision Prototypes

Unparalleled Accuracy and Resolution

SLA 3D printing has the best 3d printing resolution outcome compared to other 3D printing technologies like FDM 3D printing, SLS 3D printing and SLM 3D printing, etc. The layer thickness to form the parts is usually between 0.025 and 0.1 mm.

Excellent surface finish

Due to the high resolution of the SLA 3D printing process, the surface of the part is very smooth and doesn’t need much post-processing labour like FDM 3D printing. Only the support sections have some visible tiny caves. The surface can match injection-moulded parts. So it is very suitable to paint, laser, and silkscreen printing and other finishes treatment after 3d printing.

Material Universality

No matter whether it’s a desktop SLA 3D printer or industrial SLA 3D printing service, multiple different materials can be used to make various parts applied in many applications. At LAVA3DP, we provide a variety of resin materials with dedicated properties to 3d print parts. Here are some resin materials we can offer:

Design Freedom and Gap break with high complexity

The benefit of the ISO-compliant 3D printing is that it can make much complicated structures, if you can imagine and design them with 3D Max, Blender, or even AI. It empowers designers and mechanical engineers to open their minds to think big ideas and forget the obstacles to manufacture the design or part.

  • Standard Resins for versatile prototypes
  • Tough Resin can absorb high impact and won’t break.
  • High Temp Resin has temperature resistance over 100℃
  • Flexible resin can produce silicon or rubber parts, like 3d printed shoes
  • Transparent resins for optical applications or educational demonstrations
  • Dental resins that have been certified for biocompatibility;
  • Cast Resin can be burned into ash in the mould, and then liquid metal can be poured into the mould to make jewellery or other artworks.
sfas

SLA Material Types and Their Applications

Material Type Key Properties Common Applications
Standard Resins Good detail, smooth surface General prototypes, presentation models
Tough/Durable Resins High strength, impact resistance Functional prototypes, snap-fit assemblies
High-Temp Resins Heat resistance, thermal stability Hot air ducts, mold casting
Castable Resins Clean burnout, low ash Jewelry prototypes, dental crowns
Dental Resins Biocompatibility, precision Surgical guides, dental models
Rubber-Like Resins Flexibility, elasticity Gaskets, grips, wearable prototypes
Clear Resins Transparency, polishable Optical parts, fluid visualization

Shopping Cart