SLA Rapid Prototyping

SLA 3D printing is applicable to concept models, visual models, functional prototypes, masters for vacuum casting and patterns for investment casting. Most SLA parts we produce are prototypes for components that will ultimately be injection moulded from engineering plastics.

SLA parts are built layer by layer. A computer-controlled laser beam scans the surface of the resin bath, with the first cured layer being supported by the machine’s bed. After the first layer has been completed, the bed is lowered into the resin by a distance equal to the layer thickness, then the laser scans the surface to cure the next layer and fuse it to the layer beneath.

If necessary, support structures are built to prevent overhanging features from distorting during the build process. When the part is complete, the bed rises out of the resin bath to enable the part to be retrieved. Support structures are removed, the part is cleaned and any additional finishing processes applied.

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SLA Rapid Prototyping

Stereolithography, or SLA, is the process of converting a liquid plastic into solid 3D objects using a stereolithograph apparatus, or SLA machine. SLA was the first additive manufacturing process and was introduced over 30 years ago.

An SLA machine was the first additive manufacturing machine we purchased to start our rapid prototype company with back in 1996. As one of the first SLA prototyping service bureaus in Northeast Ohio and the USA, we have supplied tens of thousands of SLA prototypes to designers, marketers, engineers and entrepreneurs over the last 20 plus years. The Technology House has the capabilities to manufacture 3D printed parts and prototypes for your projects.

SLA Rapid Prototyping

SLA 3D Printing Process

SLA works by building a 3D model of a component using a vat of liquid ultraviolet-curable photopolymer resin and an ultraviolet laser to form one thin layer at a time, usually between 0.002”-0.006” or 50-150 microns. The laser beam traces a cross-section of the model on the surface of the liquid resin for each layer. Exposure to the ultraviolet laser light cures and solidifies the pattern traced on the resin and joins it to the layer below. After the pattern has been traced, the SLA machine’s elevator platform is lowered by the thickness of a single layer and the process is repeated. After an SLA is printed, the excess resin is removed and the component is cured in an ultraviolet oven.

SLA Rapid Prototyping

SLA 3D Printing Advantages

Highly Accurate

Smooth surface finish

Easy to finish and paint

Heat and moisture resistant

Quick turnarounds

Low costs with economy of scale

SLA Best Uses

Fit and function samples

Master patterns

Painted sales & marketing samples

Clear sample parts

Quickcast for casting masters

SLA Rapid Prototyping

SLA Materials

SLA has many different material options from Formlabs, 3D Systems and DSM SOMOS. Here are the most popular materials we run. If there is another material you are interested in, please contact our sales team and they will find and bring in the right material for your needs.

Accura® Xtreme: (rigid, high detail)

Accura® ABS White, SL 7810: (rigid ABS-like)

Accura® SL 5530: (high heat)

Accura® SL 7545: (durable, PP-like)

Accura ClearVue SL 7870: (clear)

Somos® Evolve 128 (tough ABS-like)

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Contact：

Email: Diana@kesugroup.com

WhatsApp: +86 156-2583-1454

Our engineer team are ready for your projects and provide feedback quickly.