3D Printing Service:
Hybrid PhotoSynthesis

Parts in 3 to 5 days.
Hybrid PhotoSynthesis (HPS)

Hybrid PhotoSynthesis (HPS) is used for:

Quality Matters  |  AS9100D Certified, ISO 9001:2015, ISO 13485:2016, & ITAR Registered

Certifications and Registrations

* Not all locations have all certifications and registrations. Parts requiring these will be made at facilities with the correct certifications and registrations.

Hybrid PhotoSynthesis (HPS)
Our Digital Manufacturing Process is Simple.

Upload a CAD file and request a quote.

Our team begins production once the project specifications are finalized and the quote is accepted.

When the part has been completed and finished, it passes through quality control.

After your part goes through quality control, our team ships the part(s) to you.

Additive Manufacturing Technology_Hybrid PhotoSynthesis

What is Hybrid PhotoSynthesis?

Hybrid Photosynthesis (HPS) is an innovative 3D printing technique that combines two popular methods: digital light processing (DLP) and stereolithography (SLA). DLP uses a light projector to cure a resin layer by layer, while SLA employs a laser to harden the resin. Moreover, Hybrid Photosynthesis utilizes both techniques to create highly detailed and accurate 3D models.

This technology is perfect for producing intricate and complex models with high detail. Furthermore, industries like healthcare, automotive, and aerospace use Hybrid PhotoSynthesis. In healthcare, this technology can create anatomical models that aid in surgical planning and implant design. HPS can make car product prototypes for the automotive industry before mass production. Similarly, in the aerospace industry, it is used to create detailed models of aircraft parts before large-scale production.

Hybrid Photosynthesis is a game-changer in the 3D printing industry. By leveraging the strengths of both DLP and SLA techniques, this technology can produce a high-quality finished product that is both precise and intricate.

How does Hybrid PhotoSynthesis work?

Our additive manufacturing (AM) process begins with our technicians uploading your CAD file into the machine. The technician decides on the best part orientation to maximize quality and reduce the need for support. Afterward, they send the component with supports to the machine’s platform to be sliced layer by layer and translated into instructions for the machine. The HPS machine uses a photochemical process that combines digital light processing and stereolithography. Subsequently, it projects light through an oxygen-permeable membrane into a UV-curable resin and uses a laser for precise details. This step is repeated until the build is complete.

After the build, the proficient technicians manually remove the platform from the Hybrid PhotoSynthesis machine and retrieve the parts. Then, the parts undergo solvent cleaning and UV curing to solidify the outer surface of the component. Finally, the finished components go to the finishing department for further post-processing if necessary.

Hybrid PhotoSynthesis (HPS) Illustration

Advantages to Hybrid PhotoSynthesis

Hybrid PhotoSynthesis technology has revolutionized the way products are designed and manufactured. The following are a few of the advantages of laser sintering:

Disadvantages to Hybrid PhotoSynthesis

While there are a lot of advantages to HybridPhotosynthesis, there are also some disadvantages to consider:

Hybrid PhotoSynthesis at Prototek

Hybrid PhotoSynthesis Machine Company:

Axtra3D

Hybrid PhotoSynthesis File Types:

Preferred Files: Solid, STEP, and DFX

Max Build Chamber Size:

9.5 x 5.25 x 19.25 in

Lead Time:

3 – 5 Days

Material:

Loctite3D 3843 and Ultracur3D 3280

Tolerances:

± 0.005 in for the first inch and ± 0.0015 in/in for each additional inch

Layer Thickness:

Standard Resolution: 0.004 in
Fine Resolution: 0.002 in  

Prototek's Materials

Hybrid PhotoSynthesis Materials (HPS) | Loctite3D 3843
LOTITE® 3D 3843

LOCTITE® 3D 3843 is a semi-flexible resin with moderate temperature resistance up to HDT60, high impact strength, and versatility for various applications. Additionally, it is a high-strength engineering plastic with exceptional impact resistance and a superior surface finish.

Tensile Strength

7,329 ± 290 psi

Tensile Modulus

262 ± 6.8 ksi

Elongation @ Break

43 ± 10%

Flexural Strength

N/A

Flexural Modulus

259 ± 6.5 ksi

Heat Deflection @ 264 psi

129° F

Hybrid PhotoSynthesis (HPS) Material - Ultracur3D 3280
Ultracur3D 3280

Ultracur3D 3280 is a high-performance photopolymer resin developed for 3D printing applications like HPS. It boasts excellent mechanical properties, including high strength, toughness, and rigidity, which make it ideal for producing functional parts.

Tensile Strength

10,153 psi

Tensile Modulus

1,494 ksi

Elongation @ Break

0.7%

Flexural Strength

1,273 ksi

Flexural Modulus

1,273 ksi

Heat Deflection @ 264 psi

324° F

Design Recommendations

Designing parts with adequate support structures is crucial to prevent them from collapsing during the HPS printing process. These support structures should be easy to remove after printing and should not damage the final part. Additionally, the part’s orientation during printing is also crucial, as it can significantly affect the surface quality and accuracy of the final product.

Furthermore, designers should carefully select a resin for HPS that best suits the intended application of the part, considering factors such as strength, flexibility, and resistance to heat and chemicals. lastly, ensuring that the design files are correctly formatted and error-free is essential to avoid any issues during the Hybrid PhotoSynthesis printing process.

Prototek's Additive Design Poster
Feature Measurement

Connecting & Moving Parts

0.03 in

Escape Holes

0.04 in

Embossing & Engraving

Width: 0.016 in
Height/Depth: 0.016 in

Holes & Openings

0.02 in

Horizontal Spans

0.08 in

Minimum Features

0.008 in

Pin Diameter

0.03 in

Supports & Overhangs

Base Supports Otherwise 45°

Walls (Supported)

0.02 in

Walls (Unsupported)

0.04 in
Feature Measurement

Connecting & Moving Parts

0.7 mm

Escape Holes

1 mm

Embossing & Engraving

Width: 0.4 mm
Height/Depth: 0.4 mm

Holes & Openings

0.5 mm

Horizontal Spans

2 mm

Minimum Features

0.2 mm

Pin Diameter

0.7 mm

Supports & Overhangs

Base Support Otherwise 45°

Walls (Supported)

0.5 mm

Walls (Unsupported)

1 mm

Hybrid PhotoSynthesis Finishes

Prototek Digital Manufacturing is committed to enhancing the quality of your Hybrid PhotoSynthesis 3D-printed parts through a comprehensive range of finishing options. Our highly skilled team meticulously executes post-processing services to tailor your parts to your exact specifications. Whether it’s precise painting, expert plating, meticulous polishing, or specialized coating, our team possesses the expertise to deliver flawless finishes that perfectly complement your project.

Hybrid PhotoSynthesis Finishes

Level Process
Natural
Support faces are sanded, and layer lines are visible.
Standard
Support faces are sanded, and the entire part is bead-blasted for a matte/opaque finish with some layer lines visible (black will appear grey).
Improved Exterior
Exterior (cosmetic) surfaces are sanded, and the entire part is bead-blasted for a smooth matte finish.
Improved All
All accessible surfaces are sanded, and the entire part is bead-blasted for a smooth matte finish.
Clear
Natural finish with clear coat. The layer lines are still visible.
Improved Clear
All accessible surfaces are sanded smooth with a clear coat for optimal clarity on transparent materials.
Primed Exterior
Exterior (cosmetic) surfaces are sanded, bead-blasted, and primed grey.
Primed All
All accessible surfaces are sanded, bead-blasted, and primed grey.
Painted
All accessible surfaces are sanded, bead-blasted, primed, and painted (provide a drawing with your paint specifications).
Custom

Custom finish. Let us know if your project requires special finishing. Please fill out our engineer-assisted quote form.

Learn More About HPS

Through our resources, you can discover the complexities of HPS 3D printing and gain insights into creating top-notch designs specifically tailored for this cutting-edge technology.

A comparison of AM photopolymer technologies stereolithography, digital light processing, and hybrid photosynthesis.

Why choose Prototek for your next Hybrid PhotoSynthesis project?

Prototek is the ideal choice for your next Hybrid PhotoSynthesis project. With extensive experience in 3D printing services, our team of highly skilled engineers can assist you in bringing your project to life. Moreover, our state-of-the-art HPS equipment guarantees precision and accuracy, ensuring that we produce your project promptly and cost-effectively. At Prototek, we are committed to providing high-quality services and guarantee that your end product will meet or exceed your expectations. Our personalized customer service also ensures that we meet all your unique project requirements. By choosing Prototek, you can have confidence that your project is in good hands. Furthermore, our expertise and commitment to excellence will make your decision intelligent.

What do our customers say about us?
They are competitively priced for their services and a very personable team to work with. If you haven't used them - do it! You'll have a lifelong vendor you be happy with that repeatedly goes above and beyond what is asked.
Product Designer
We are extremely happy with the quality of the parts as well as the level of service - thanks!
VP Product Designer

Standard Drill Bit Sizes

Drill Size

Imperial

Metric

#107

0.0019 in

0.0483 mm

0.05 mm

0.0020 in

0.0500 mm

#106

0.0023 in

0.0584 mm

#105

0.0027 in

0.0686 mm

#104

0.0031 in

0.0787 mm

#103

0.0035 in

0.0889 mm

#102

0.0039 in

0.0991 mm

0.1 mm

0.0039 in

0.1000 mm

#101

0.0043 in

0.1092 mm

#100

0.0047 in

0.1194 mm

#99

0.0051 in

0.1295 mm

#98

0.0055 in

0.1397 mm

#97

0.0059 in

0.1499 mm

#96

0.0063 in

0.1600 mm

#95

0.0067 in

0.1702 mm

#94

0.0071 in

0.1803 mm

#93

0.0075 in

0.1905 mm

0.2 mm

0.0079 in

0.2000 mm

#92

0.0079 in

0.2007 mm

#91

0.0083 in

0.2108 mm

#90

0.0087 in

0.2210 mm

#89

0.0091 in

0.2311 mm

#88

0.0095 in

0.2413 mm

#87

0.0100 in

0.2540 mm

#86

0.0105 in

0.2667 mm

#85

0.0110 in

0.2794 mm

#84

0.0115 in

0.2921 mm

0.3 mm

0.0118 in

0.3000 mm

#83

0.0120 in

0.3048 mm

#82

0.0125 in

0.3175 mm

#81

0.0130 in

0.3302 mm

#80

0.0135 in

0.3429 mm

#79

0.0145 in

0.3680 mm

1/64 in

0.0156 in

0.3969 mm

0.4 mm

0.0158 in

0.4000 mm

#78

0.0160 in

0.4064 mm

#77

0.0180 in

0.4572 mm

0.5 mm

0.0197 in

0.5000 mm

#76

0.0200 in

0.5080 mm

#75

0.0210 in

0.5334 mm

#74

0.0225 in

0.5715 mm

0.6 mm

0.0236 in

0.6000 mm

#73

0.0240 in

0.6069 mm

#72

0.0250 in

0.6350 mm

#71

0.0260 in

0.6604 mm

0.7 mm

0.0276 in

0.7000 mm

#70

0.0280 in

0.7112 mm

#69

0.0292 in

0.7417 mm

#68

0.0310 in

0.7874 mm

1/32 in

0.0313 in

0.7938 mm

0.8 mm

0.0315 in

0.8000 mm

#67

0.0320 in

0.8128 mm

#66

0.0330 in

0.8382 mm

#65

0.0350 in

0.8890 mm

0.9 mm

0.0354 in

0.9000 mm

#64

0.0360 in

0.9144 mm

#63

0.0370 in

0.9398 mm

#62

0.0380 in

0.9652 mm

#61

0.0390 in

0.9906 mm

1 mm

0.0394 in

1.0000 mm

#60

0.0400 in

1.0160 mm

#59

0.0410 in

1.0414 mm

#58

0.0420 in

1.0668 mm

#57

0.0430 in

1.0922 mm

1.1 mm

0.0433 in

1.1000 mm

#56

0.0465 in

1.1811 mm

3/64 in

0.0469 in

1.1906 mm

1.2 mm

0.0472 in

1.2000 mm

1.3 mm

0.0512 in

1.3000 mm

#55

0.0520 in

1.3208 mm

#54

0.0550 in

1.3970 mm

1.4 mm

0.0551 in

1.4000 mm

1.5 mm

0.0591 in

1.5000 mm

#53

0.0595 in

1.5113 mm

1/16 in

0.0625 in

1.5875 mm

1.6 mm

0.0630 in

1.6000 mm

#52

0.0635 in

1.6129 mm

1.7 mm

0.0669 in

1.7000 mm

#51

0.0670 in

1.7018 mm

#50

0.0700 in

1.7780 mm

1.8 mm

0.0709 in

1.8000 mm

#49

0.0730 in

1.8542 mm

1.9 mm

0.0748 in

1.9000 mm

#48

0.0760 in

1.9304 mm

5/64 in

0.0781 in

1.9844 mm

#47

0.0785 in

1.9939 mm

2 mm

0.0787 in

2.0000 mm

#46

0.0810 in

2.0574 mm

#45

0.0820 in

2.0828 mm

2.1 mm

0.0827 in

2.1000 mm

#44

0.0860 in

2.1844 mm

2.2 mm

0.0866 in

2.2000 mm

#43

0.0890 in

2.2606 mm

2.3 mm

0.0906 in

2.3000 mm

#42

0.0935 in

2.3749 mm

3/32 in

0.0938 in

2.3813 mm

2.4 mm

0.0945 in

2.4000 mm

#41

0.0960 in

2.4384 mm

#40

0.0980 in

2.4892 mm

2.5 mm

0.0984 in

2.5000 mm

#39

0.0995 in

2.5273 mm

#38

0.1015 in

2.5781 mm

2.6 mm

0.1024 in

2.6000 mm

#37

0.1040 in

2.6416 mm

2.7 mm

0.1063 in

2.7000 mm

#36

0.1065 in

2.7051 mm

7/64 in

0.1094 in

2.7781 mm

#35

0.1100 in

2.7940 mm

2.8 mm

0.1102 in

2.8000 mm

#34

0.1110 in

2.8194 mm

#33

0.1130 in

2.8702 mm

2.9 mm

0.1142 in

2.9000 mm

#32 

0.1160 in

2.9464 mm

3 mm

0.1181 in

3.0000 mm

3.1 mm

0.1221 in

3.1000 mm

1/8 in

0.1250 in

3.1750 mm

3.2 mm

0.1260 in

3.2000 mm

#30

0.1285 in

3.2639 mm

3.3 mm

0.1299 in

3.3000 mm

3.4 mm

0.1339 in

3.4000 mm

#29

0.1360 in

3.4544 mm

9/64 in

0.1406 in

3.5719 mm

5/32 in

0.1563 in

3.9688 mm

11/64 in

0.1719 in

4.3656 mm

3/16 in

0.1875 in

4.7625 mm

13/64 in

0.2031 in

5.1594 mm

7/32 in

0.2188 in

5.5563 mm

15/64 in

0.2344 in

5.9531 mm

1/4 in

0.2500 in

6.3500 mm

17/64 in

0.2656 in

6.7469 mm

9/32 in

0.2813 in

7.1438 mm

19/64 in

0.2969 in

7.5406 mm

5/16 in

0.3125 in

7.9375 mm

21/64 in

0.3281 in

8.3344 mm

11/32 in

0.3438 in

8.7313 mm

23/64 in

0.3594 in

9.1281 mm

3/8 in

0.3750 in

9.5250 mm

25/64 in

0.3906 in

9.9219 mm

13/32 in

0.4063 in

10.3188 mm

27/64 in

0.4219 in

10.7156 mm

7/16 in

0.4375 in

11.1125 mm

29/64 in

0.4531 in

11.5094 mm

15/32 in

0.4688 in

11.9063 mm

31/64 in

0.4844 in

12.3031 mm

1/2 in

0.5 in

12.700 mm

33/64 in

0.5156 in

13.0969 mm

17/32 in

0.5313 in

13.4938 mm

35/64 in

0.5469 in

13.8906 mm

9/16 in

0.5625 in

14.2875 mm

37/64 in

0.5781 in

14.6844 mm

19/32 in

0.5938 in

15.0813 mm

39/64 in

0.6094 in

15.4781 mm

5/8 in

0.6250 in

15.8750 mm

41/64 in

0.6406 in

16.2719 mm

43/64 in

0.6719 in

17.0656 mm

11/16 in

0.6875 in

17.4625 mm

45/64 in

0.7031 in

17.8594 mm

23/32 in

0.7188 in

18.2563 mm

47/64 in

0.7344 in

18.6531 mm

3/4 in

0.7500 in

19.0500 mm

49/64 in

0.7656 in

19.4469 mm

25/32 in

0.7813 in

19.8438 mm

51/64 in

0.7969 in

20.2406 mm

13/16 in

0.8125 in

20.6375 mm

53/64 in

0.8281 in

21.0344 mm

27/32 in

0.8438 in

21.4313 mm

55/64 in

0.8594 in

21.8281 mm

7/8 in

0.8750 in

22.2250 mm

57/64 in

0.8906 in

22.6219 mm

29/32 in

0.9063 in

23.0188 mm

21/23 in

0.9130 in

23.1913 mm

59/64 in

0.9219 in

23.4156 mm

15/16 in

0.9375 in

23.8125 mm

61/64 in

0.9531 in

24.2094 mm

31/32 in

0.9688 in

24.6063 mm

63/64 in

0.9844 in

25.0031 mm

1 in

1.0000 in

25.4000 mm

1 1/64 in

1.0156 in

25.7969 mm

1 1/32 in

1.0313 in

26.1938 mm

1 3/64 in

1.0469 in

26.5906 mm

1 1/16 in

1.0625 in

26.9875 mm

1 5/64 in

1.0781 in

27.3844 mm

1 3/32 in

1.0938 in

27.7813 mm

1 7/64 in

1.1094 in

28.1781 mm

1 1/8 in

1.1250 in

28.5750 mm

1 9/64 in

1.1406 in

28.9719 mm

1 5/32 in

1.1563 in

29.3688 mm

1 11/64 in

1.1719 in

29.7656 mm

1 3/16 in

1.1875 in

30.1625 mm

1 13/64 in

1.2031 in

30.5594 mm

1 7/32 in

1.2188 in

30.9563 mm

1 15/64 in

1.2344 in

31.3531 mm

1 1/4 in

1.2500 in

31.7500 mm

1 17/64 in

1.2656 in

32.1469 mm

1 9/32 in

1.2813 in

32.5438 mm

1 19/64 in

1.2969 in

32.9406 mm

1 5/16 in

1.3125 in

33.3375 mm

1 21/64 in

1.3281 in

33.7344 mm

1 11/32 in

1.3438 in

34.1313 mm

1 23/64 in

1.3594 in

34.5281 mm

1 3/8 in

1.3750 in

34.9250 mm

1 25/64 in

1.3906 in

35.3219 mm

1 13/32 in

1.4063 in

35.7188 mm

1 27/64 in

1.4219 in

36.1156 mm

1 7/16 in

1.4375 in

36.5125 mm

1 29/64 in

1.4531 in

36.9094 mm

1 15/32 in

1.4688 in

37.3063 mm

1 31/64 in

1.4844 in

37.7031 mm

1 1/2 in

1.5000 in

38.1000 mm