SLA 3D Printing

In Stereolithography (SLA)  a  laser precisely cures each layer of a design into UV-sensitive resin.

It is one of the most tried, tested and efficient industrial 3D printing techniques and serves as the foundation of rapid prototyping.

Highly-Detailed

Fast Process

How Stereolithography Works

Stereolithography builds a part layer-by-layer using UV sensitive resin and a high-power laser.  

  1. 3D CAD file is reviewed by the AME-3D production team  
  2. CAD file is set-up in the SLA system  with required supports 
  3. UV laser beam selectively hardens the resin based on the file specifications 
  4. The  machine builds the 3D part one layer at a time
  5. After the  build is complete, the  part is processed according to the chosen finish 

Cost-Effective

Rapid Prototyping

SLA Applications and Uses  

  • Master parts for rapid prototyping 
  • Visual prototypes for investment pitches and stakeholder buy-ins  
  • Functional prototypes for concept testing 
  • Individual part form and fit testing   
  • Durable materials ideal for on  demand  parts 
  • Housing consumer electronics 
  • Medical devices  
  • Transparent assemblies such as headlamps or bottles 

SLA Printing Details

The SLA dimensions are a reference guide. Our team are experienced in splitting designs and seamlessly joining parts together, should you require a build that exceeds the maximum SLA printing dimensions provided.  

SLA Dimensions  350 x 350 x 400 mm 
SLA High Resolution Dimensions 250 x 250 x 250 mm     
SLA Resolution Layer thickness 0.1 mm  
SLA  High Resolution Layer thickness 0.05 mm   
Supported Walls  Min. 0.4 mm thick 
Unsupported Walls  Min. 0.6 mm thick 
Overhangs  Length < 1.0 mm; Min. 19° level
Connections

0.2 mm assembly connections

0.1 mm snug fits 
Engraving Min. 0.4 mm wide and 0.4 mm thick 
Embossed details Min. 0.1 mm height 
Holes Min. 0.5 mm diameter 

                                                                               

Lead Times

  • Typically 1-5 days

Please note, our SLA printing machines run throughout the weekend and we offer delivery all over the UK. 

If the material you need isn’t listed, we  order  material in for customers. 

Accura Xtreme Plastic 

A durable plastic available in  grey

Shore Hardness Tensile Strength  Tensile Modulus 
86D 38 - 44 MPa 1,790 - 1,980 MPa
Flexural Strength Flexural Modulus Heat Deflection Temp
52-71 MPa 1,520 - 2,070 MPa 60°C
Elongation Break 
14 - 22%

 

Accura Clearvue Plastic 

A moisture resistant plastic available in clear. 

Shore Hardness Tensile Strength  Tensile Modulus 
84D 41 - 46 MPa 2,030 - 2,220 MPa
Flexural Strength Flexural Modulus Heat Deflection Temp
53 - 67 MPa  1,560 - 2,040 MPa 50 - 51°C
Elongation Break 
4 - 7%

 

Accura 25

A general purpose plastic available in white that offers more flexibility than rigid plastics.  

Shore Hardness Tensile Strength  Tensile Modulus 
80D 38 MPa 1,590 - 1,660 MPa
Flexural Strength Flexural Modulus Heat Deflection Temp
55 - 58 MPa  1,380 - 1,660 MPa 51 - 63°C
Elongation Break 
13 - 20%

SLA Finishes

Grade 01

  • Post-curing (via UV light)
  • Remove support and bead blasting if required. (Please note, scarring with build layers is still visible ) 

SLA grade 01 finish grey_light fixture zoomed



Grade 02

  • Grade 01 finishes plus
  • Sanding remove build lines
  • No specific surface finish

SLA grade 02 finish grey_light fixture_zoomed in

Grade 03 

  • Grade 01 and Grade 02 finishes plus 
  • Sanding
  • Wet sanding
  • Priming
  • Spray painting
  • Polished to clear transparent resin or frosted
  • Surface finish can be specified as sparked, matt, satin, gloss
SLA grade 03 finish smooth grey-light fixture zoomed

SLA Printed Parts

SLA printed parts play a big role in on  demand  manufacturing. 

3D printed parts are an ideal choice, if you require an end-use part due to demand volatility or  an unexpected delay in your supply chain. 

SLA_quick part_white

 The benefits of SLA printed parts are:  

  • High-speed 3D printing    
  • Part production repeatability 

Benefits

Stereolithography is  a highly versatile 3D printing technique that bridges the gap  of rapid prototyping and on demand part manufacturing.

Its main benefits include:  

  • Fine detail and high resolution  
  • Precision 
  • Repeatability
  • Smoother  surface finish compared to FDM 
  • Cost-effectiveness 
  • Fast process  
  • Wide variety of uses 
Hornby
arquella
Promethean

Ready to build?

SLA prototype costs and SLA printed part costs vary depending on the complexity of the project.

Our experienced team will assess and then provide various price options to best suit your budget and requirements. 

Contact

T +44 (0)1909 550 999
E info@ame-3d.co.uk

Momentum House
Church Lane
Sheffield
S25 2RG

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