Professional Stereolithography (SLA) Services for Your Business
SLA uses an ultraviolet laser to cure liquid photopolymer resin layer by layer, producing parts with exceptional surface finish and fine detail resolution.
About Stereolithography (SLA)
Stereolithography (SLA) is the original 3D printing technology, invented in 1984. It uses an ultraviolet laser to selectively cure liquid photopolymer resin layer by layer. The laser traces each cross-section on the surface of the resin, solidifying the pattern. After each layer, the build platform lowers (or raises, in inverted SLA) and the next layer is cured on top. SLA produces the smoothest surface finish and finest detail of any 3D printing technology, with layer thicknesses as low as 0.001" (25 microns). It is widely used for visual prototypes, master patterns for molding, dental models, jewelry casting patterns, and any application requiring high detail and smooth surfaces.
Tolerances
±0.002"-±0.005" (±0.05-0.13mm)
Lead Time
1-5 business days
Cost Range
$15-$300 per part; depends on size and resin type
Compatible Materials
Advantages
- Finest detail and resolution
- Smoothest surface finish
- Wide range of specialty resins
- Excellent for visual prototypes
- Accurate casting patterns
- Very thin walls possible
Limitations
- Resin parts can be brittle
- UV sensitivity causes degradation over time
- Support structures required (leave marks)
- Build size limitations
- Higher material cost than FDM or SLS
- Post-curing required
Industries Served
Aerospace
The aerospace industry manufactures aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and related components requiring the highest standards of precision, quality, and reliability.
Automotive
The automotive industry manufactures vehicles and components, demanding high-volume production, consistent quality, and competitive pricing across a complex global supply chain.
Medical Devices
The medical device industry manufactures instruments, implants, diagnostics, and equipment that must meet stringent regulatory requirements for safety and biocompatibility.
Consumer Products
Consumer products manufacturing produces household goods, appliances, sporting equipment, and personal items through high-volume processes prioritizing aesthetics and cost efficiency.
Stereolithography (SLA) FAQ
How detailed can SLA prints get?
SLA can produce features as small as 0.006" (0.15mm) with layer heights as thin as 0.001" (25 microns). This makes it capable of reproducing fine text, micro-features, and intricate surface textures that other 3D printing technologies cannot achieve.
Are SLA parts strong enough for functional use?
Tough and engineering resins offer decent mechanical properties for functional prototyping. However, standard SLA resins are more brittle than SLS nylon or FDM plastics. For structural applications, SLS or FDM with engineering materials is usually preferred.
How long do SLA resin parts last?
SLA parts can degrade when exposed to prolonged UV light, becoming yellow and brittle over time. Indoor parts with minimal UV exposure can last years. UV-resistant resins and protective clear coats extend outdoor lifespan significantly.
What is the best use case for SLA printing?
SLA excels at visual prototypes for client presentations, master patterns for silicone molding, dental models and surgical guides, jewelry casting patterns, and any part where surface finish and detail are more important than mechanical strength.
Can SLA prints be painted or finished?
Yes, SLA prints accept paint, primer, and finishes very well due to their smooth surface. Light sanding (400+ grit) prepares the surface for painting. SLA prototypes are frequently painted to simulate production parts for marketing and testing.
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