Stereolithography (often called SLA or SL) rapidly builds components using a precise UV laser to cure and solidify thin layers of a photo-reactive resin. Stereolithography 3D printing provides a precise solution for applications where fine details, dimensional accuracy and high-quality surfaces are important. One of the most accurate 3D printing technologies, SL is ideal for concept models, form and fit studies, and investment casting patterns. This makes stereolithography prototyping particularly valuable for evaluating designs and producing detailed physical models before progressing to production. We offer a suite of professional finishing options to achieve a high-quality surface finish. Businesses can also access a stereolithography printing service for professional parts without investing in dedicated equipment. SLA 3D printing can support applications ranging from detailed prototypes and presentation models to patterns and other specialised components. In addition, we can join multiple sections of a part design quickly and seamlessly to create large parts.
Don’t sacrifice accuracy for size. Stereolithography offers virtually limitless part size. We will seamlessly bond individual sections into industrial sized patterns.
Your parts will be delivered on time and ready for immediate integration with our complete suite of finishing services. Backed by expert painters and technicians with years of experience, we offer hand finishing, texture, non-cosmetic and cosmetic paint, as well as EMI and RFI shielding and plating options.
SL is often used for prototypes or large concept models that require coatings or finished surfaces and smooth master patterns.
Common applications include:
Anatomical models
Architectural models
Large investment cast patterns
Lightweight concept models
Urethane casting patterns
Fused Deposition Modeling
Discover Fused Deposition Modeling for creating durable prototypes, tooling and functional components using engineering-grade thermoplastics.
Multi Jet Fusion
Explore Multi Jet Fusion for efficient production of detailed polymer parts suited to functional prototyping and manufacturing applications.
Selective Laser Sintering
Discover Selective Laser Sintering for producing strong, complex polymer components without dedicated support structures.
Urethane Casting
Explore Urethane Casting for manufacturing high quality prototypes and low volume parts with a variety of material properties and finishes.
Stereolithography is available in a variety of resolutions. At its highest resolution, the layer thickness is 0.0508mm and the X/Y resolution is 0.1016mm.
Stereolithography is not generally considered suitable for production applications because the photo-reactive resins used in the process do not remain stable under long exposure to UV light. However, SL is often used to make precise investment casting patterns to create end-use metal parts.
Stereolithography 3D printing is an additive manufacturing process that uses a UV laser to selectively cure liquid photopolymer resin layer by layer. It is known for producing accurate parts with fine details and smooth surfaces, making it valuable for professional prototyping and modelling applications.
SLA 3D printing offers high dimensional accuracy, fine feature reproduction and excellent surface quality. These characteristics make it particularly suitable for detailed prototypes, complex models and applications where appearance and precision are more important than the rugged characteristics required from some thermoplastic processes.
A stereolithography printing service can be useful when you require professional SLA parts without purchasing and operating your own equipment. Outsourcing can also provide access to specialised materials, finishing capabilities and technical expertise for occasional or complex projects.
Look to SL to mimic properties of ABS, polycarbonate, and polypropylene in layers as thin as 0.0508mm”. We have a wide range of resins for every prototyping need – from clear to strong, rigid plastics and a resin specifically formulated for investment casting.
Stereolithography requires an STL file. For detailed CAD specifications and considerations for preparing your STL file for 3D printing,
And if you’re ready to build now, use our no-hassle Quote Tool.
