Stereolithography (SLA)

SLA 250/50 Stereolithography is a free form fabrication technology developed by 3D Systems. Due to its accuracy and surface finish, it has become the most popular of the rapid prototyping methods.

It is a layered manufacturing method that utilizes a photo-curable liquid resin in combination with an ultraviolet laser: a vat of the resin sits underneath the laser, and the laser “draws” on the top layer of liquid. When the ultraviolet laser beam hits the liquid it hardens a small amount of resin under the beam point. By drawing the outline, then filling the outline of a layer, a solid layer of material is created. This layer is then lowered a small amount into the vat, a new layer of liquid is placed on top, and the process repeats itself. By creating one flat layer at a time, a very precise geometry can be created resulting in a complete part.

PADT operates an Viper Si2 and an SLA250/50 SLA machine. The specifications of our machines in addition to information on stereolithography is provided below.

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Viper Si2

SLA250/50 Specifications

Viper Si2 Specifications

Advantages of Stereolithography Process

Build Volume:

10" x 10" x 10"

Resins:
- ACCURA 50 (opaque white ABS-lik resin)
- SOMOS 11120 (near transparent ABS-like resin)
Build Step Size: 0.004" to 0.006"
Beam Size: 0.004" Diameter

Build Volume:

10" x 10" x 10"

Resins:
- ACCURA 50 (opaque white ABS-lik resin)
- ACCURA 60 (near transparent Poly-Carbonate)
Build Step Size: 0.002" to 0.004"
Beam Size:
- HR - 0.002"
- Norm - 0.004"