3D Printing Service:
Stereolithography

Parts in 1 to 3 days.
What is Stereolithography - A Collage of Photopolymer Based Technology Stereolithography printer SLA

Stereolithography (SLA) 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.

What is Stereolithography - A Collage of Photopolymer Based Technology Stereolithography printer SLA
Our Digital Manufacturing Process is Simple.

Upload a CAD file and request a quote.

Our team starts production after finalizing project specifications and accepting the quote with you.

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.

Stereolithography Part capabilities

What is Stereolithography?

Stereolithography (SLA) is an advanced additive manufacturing process that utilizes a precise laser to cure photopolymer resins, ultimately creating detailed 3D objects. The laser meticulously traces the object’s cross-sections on a liquid resin vat, solidifying the material layer by layer. Consequently, this technique produces highly detailed parts with exceptional surface finishes. SLA technology has revolutionized the production of complex components in various industries, offering precision and customization for specialized parts. Due to its layer-by-layer approach using a UV light, SLA is ideal for prototyping and manufacturing in the aerospace, medical, automotive, and consumer goods sectors.

How does Stereolithography work?

To begin this industrial 3D printing process, our Additive Manufacturing (AM) Technicians will upload your CAD file to the SLA printer. Subsequently, the software breaks down the file layer by layer. The technicians carefully consider the orientation of the part and the placement of supports when setting up the part. The Stereolithography printer uses an ultraviolet laser to draw each layer of the part onto the surface of the liquid resin tank. After each laser pass, the build platform moves down, and a bar moves across the surface to recoat the platform. Subsequently, this process repeats until the build is complete.

After finishing the print, the AM Technician removes the platform from the stereolithography printer, and the parts are manually removed and cleaned using solvents. Following this, the parts undergo a UV curing cycle to solidify the outer surface of the component. Finally, the components go to the finishing department.

AM Technology_Stereolithography printer SLA

Advantages to Stereolithography

Stereolithography technology has revolutionized the way products are designed and manufactured. The following are a few of the advantages of stereolithography:

Disadvantages to Stereolithography

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

Stereolithography at Prototek

Stereolithography Machine Companies:

3D Systems, Stratasys

Stereolithography File Types:

Preferred Files: Solid, STEP, and DFX

Max Build Chamber Area:

31 x 31 x 23 in

Lead Time:

1 – 3 Days

Materials:

3D Systems Accura®: 25, 60, ClearVue, ABS Black, AMX Rigid Black, AMX Tough FR V0 Black, SL 5530, Xtreme, Xtreme White 200

DSM Somos®: BioClear, EvoLVe, PerFORM, ProtoTherm, Taurus, WaterClear Ultra 10122, WaterShed Black, WaterShed XC 11222

Tolerances:

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

Layer Thickness:

The normal resolution layer thickness is 0.004 in, and the minimum feature size is 0.012 in.

The high-resolution layer thickness is 0.002 in, and the minimum feature size is 0.006 in (feature size depends on geometry).

Prototek's Materials

Stereolithography (SLA) - Accura® 25
Accura® 25

Accura® 25 is fast and easy to process, effectively simulating the properties and aesthetics of polypropylene. Additionally, it offers high flexibility, durability, and precision.

Tensile Strength

5,540 – 5,570 psi

Tensile Modulus

230 – 240 ksi

Elongation @ Break

13 – 20%

Flexural Strength

7,960 – 8,410 psi

Flexural Modulus

200 – 240 ksi

Heat Deflection @ 264 psi

124° – 131° F

Stereolithography (SLA) - Accura® 60
Accura® 60

Accura® 60 is a high-quality, high-performance clear/translucent plastic for SLA. Its unique properties make it perfect for producing solid and rigid parts with the appearance of molded polycarbonate.

Tensile Strength

8,410 – 9,860 psi

Tensile Modulus

390 – 450 ksi

Elongation @ Break

5 – 13%

Flexural Strength

12,620 – 14,650 psi

Flexural Modulus

392 – 435 ksi

Heat Deflection @ 264 psi

118° – 122° F

Stereolithography - Accura® ClearVue - from an SLA Printer
Accura® ClearVue

Accura® ClearVue is a high-quality material known for its exceptional clarity, making it perfect for applications requiring visual appeal.

Tensile Strength

6,700 – 7,700 psi

Tensile Modulus

329 – 383 ksi

Elongation @ Break

3 – 15%

Flexural Strength

10,400 – 12,200 psi

Flexural Modulus

287 – 335 ksi

Heat Deflection @ 264 psi

122° F

Stereolithography (SLA) - Accura® ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) Black
Accura® ABS Black

Accura® ABS Black is a multi-purpose stereolithography material offering a balanced property profile, good flexibility, shock absorption, and the possibility of printing tiny structures with a high level of detail.

Tensile Strength

6,525 – 6,815 psi

Tensile Modulus

274 – 354 ksi

Elongation @ Break

6 – 13%

Flexural Strength

10,875 – 11,310 psi

Flexural Modulus

328 – 344 ksi

Heat Deflection @ 264 psi

N/A

Stereolithography Materials - Accura® AMX Rigid Black
Accura® AMX Rigid Black

Accura® AMX Rigid Black is a high-performance SLA photopolymer resin designed for additive manufacturing applications. Its unique formulation provides superior mechanical properties.

Tensile Strength

7,600 psi

Tensile Modulus

310 ksi

Elongation @ Break

24%

Flexural Strength

12,800 psi

Flexural Modulus

340 ksi

Heat Deflection @ 264 psi

125° F

Stereolithography (SLA) - Accura AMX Tough FR V0 Black
Accura® AMX Tough FR V0 Black

Accura® AMX Tough FR V0 Black is noteworthy for being the industry’s first flame-retardant stereolithography material. This makes it ideal for applications where fire safety is paramount. Moreover, the material boasts exceptional toughness and durability, making it suitable for producing high-quality parts that withstand demanding conditions. 

Tensile Strength

4,800 psi

Tensile Modulus

190 ksi

Elongation @ Break

35.5%

Flexural Strength

5,500 psi

Flexural Modulus

150 ksi

Heat Deflection @ 264 psi

117° F

Stereolithography (SLA) - Accura® SL 5530
Accura® SL 5530

Accura® SL 5530 is perfect for creating durable, functional pieces that are solid and stable. Additionally, its translucent color makes post-processing and finishing easier.

Tensile Strength

8,267 – 9,137 psi

Tensile Modulus

414 – 454 ksi

Elongation @ Break

2.7 – 4.4%

Flexural Strength

15,809 – 17,405 psi

Flexural Modulus

431 – 492 ksi

Heat Deflection @ 264 psi

133° F

Stereolithography (SLA) - Accura® Xtreme
Accura® Xtreme

Accura® Xtreme is a high-performance, rigid photopolymer material with excellent mechanical properties. Moreover, its unique blend of acrylate monomers and oligomers gives it superior toughness and impact resistance.

Tensile Strength

5,500 – 6,380 psi

Tensile Modulus

260 – 287 ksi

Elongation @ Break

14 – 22%

Flexural Strength

7,540 – 10,300 psi

Flexural Modulus

220 – 300 ksi

Heat Deflection @ 264 psi

129° F

Stereolithography (SLA) - Accura® Xtreme White 200
Accura® Xtreme White 200

Accura® Xtreme White 200 is a durable and inflexible SLA material recognized for its high precision and capability to capture intricate details. It is perfect for producing models, prototypes, and end-use parts.

Tensile Strength

6,530 – 7,250 psi

Tensile Modulus

334 – 381 ksi

Elongation @ Break

7 – 20%

Flexural Strength

10,880 – 11,460 psi

Flexural Modulus

341 – 370 ksi

Heat Deflection @ 264 psi

108° F

Stereolithography (SLA) - Somos® BioClear
Somos® BioClear

Somos® BioClear is an advanced engineered resin that produces precise, functional prototypes and parts. It is also clear and colorless, capable of producing parts with exceptional clarity, smooth surface finish, and high fidelity.

Tensile Strength

7,300 psi

Tensile Modulus

N/A

Elongation @ Break

15.5%

Flexural Strength

10,000 psi

Flexural Modulus

320 ksi

Heat Deflection @ 264 psi

120° F

Stereolithography (SLA) - Somos® EvoLVe 128
Somos® EvoLVe 128

Somos® EvoLVe 128 offers higher stiffness and strength than other existing SLA materials. Furthermore, it exhibits exceptional moisture resistance, making it an ideal material for parts exposed to humid or wet environments.

Tensile Strength

8,200 psi

Tensile Modulus

430 ksi

Elongation @ Break

11%

Flexural Strength

N/A

Flexural Modulus

385 ksi

Heat Deflection @ 264 psi

121° F

Stereolithography (SLA) - Somos® PerFORM
Somos® PerFORM

Somos® PerFORM is a top-performing material perfect for applications requiring high strength, durability, and precision. It is mainly used in industries such as aerospace or the medical field. It is composed of a unique blend of liquid resins and composite particles, offering a combination of stiffness and toughness. This material effectively withstands high-stress environments.

Tensile Strength

9,900 psi

Tensile Modulus

1,530 ksi

Elongation @ Break

1.1%

Flexural Strength

17,400 psi

Flexural Modulus

1,450 ksi

Heat Deflection @ 264 psi

180° F

Somos® ProtoTherm
Somos® ProtoTherm

Somos® ProtoTherm offers exceptional accuracy, detail, and thermal resistance for various additive manufacturing applications. Its strong properties make it an excellent option for functional prototypes.

Tensile Strength

10.2 ksi

Tensile Modulus

511 ksi

Elongation @ Break

4%

Flexural Strength

15.8 ksi

Flexural Modulus

482 ksi

Heat Deflection @ 264 psi

125° F

Stereolithography (SLA) - Somos® Taurus
Somos® Taurus

Somos® Taurus is a thermoplastic resin known for its exceptional strength and durability, making it a popular choice for applications that require high performance, such as automotive, aerospace, and medical. 

Tensile Strength

6.8 ksi

Tensile Modulus

335 ksi

Elongation @ Break

24%

Flexural Strength

10.7 ksi

Flexural Modulus

298 ksi

Heat Deflection @ 264 psi

122° F

Stereolithography SLA) - Somos® WaterClear Ultra
Somos® WaterClear Ultra 10122

Somos® WaterClear Ultra 10122 is a durable, translucent SLA photopolymer that can produce high-quality parts with excellent accuracy and detail. The material is ideal for functional prototyping, creating models, and producing finished products with complex geometries.

Tensile Strength

8.1 ksi

Tensile Modulus

418 ksi

Elongation @ Break

7.5%

Flexural Strength

12.2 ksi

Flexural Modulus

361 ksi

Heat Deflection @ 264 psi

122° F

Stereolithography (SLA) - Somos® WaterShed Black
Somos® WaterShed Black

Somos® WaterShed Black provides exceptional thermal stability, durability, and strength. It is ideal for producing solid and stable parts for various applications. Moreover, with its advanced properties, this resin can withstand extreme temperatures and harsh environmental conditions while maintaining its structural integrity.

Tensile Strength

7.3 ksi

Tensile Modulus

402 ksi

Elongation @ Break

15.5%

Flexural Strength

10 ksi

Flexural Modulus

320 ksi

Heat Deflection @ 264 psi

120° F

Stereolithography: Somos® WaterShed XC 11122
Somos® WaterShed XC 11122

Somos® WaterShed XC 11122 durable and high-performance photopolymer resin combines mechanical strength, toughness, and dimensional stability, making it ideal for applications that require accurate and complex geometries. Additionally, it is suitable for a wide range of manufacturing needs.

Tensile Strength

7.3 ksi

Tensile Modulus

403 ksi

Elongation @ Break

15.5%

Flexural Strength

10 ksi

Flexural Modulus

320 ksi

Heat Deflection @ 264 psi

120° F

*Special processing may be required. Please notify us of any biocompatibility needs.

Design Recommendations

Stereolithography, called SLA, is an additive manufacturing technology that offers exceptional design accuracy and provides detailed and smooth parts. With SLA, designers need to consider several important factors when designing parts that can ensure the success of their project. One of the most crucial factors when working with this technology is the support structures required for stability and prosperous production. Additionally, part orientation is critical to your final product’s strength and quality. Another significant aspect to consider is creating designs with high resolution and intricate details, which can help maximize the smoothness of your SLA printed model. Finally, it’s essential to choose suitable materials based on the desired properties of your final product, which can contribute significantly to the overall success of your project.

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

Stereolithography Finishes

At Prototek Digital Manufacturing, we offer diverse cutting-edge stereolithography finishes to meet your exact specifications. Our advanced additive manufacturing technologies deliver top-notch, long-lasting components with unparalleled surface finishes and exceptional quality. We understand the importance of precision and excellence in manufacturing, and our team is committed to providing you with finished products that meet the highest standards.

Stereolithography 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 SLA

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

Ford and RTR Vehicles drive performance with functional testing for their collaborative project, the electric Switchgear, with Prototek’s SLA.

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

Why choose Prototek for your next stereolithography project?

Prototek is the perfect choice for stereolithography due to its vast experience in rapid prototyping and advanced technology for creating accurate stereolithography printed models and functional parts. The company adheres to strict ISO 9001:2015 and AS9100D quality management standards, ensuring reliable models for the aerospace, medical, and automotive industries. Prototek’s experienced team also guides the design and prototyping process to ensure accuracy, function, and aesthetic appeal. Trust Prototek for high-quality Stereolithography services that turn ideas into reality with precision.

What do our customers say about us?
I had an emergency order this past month and they quoted it within budget and we received it earlier than anyone else quoted.
Industrial Industry
We are extremely happy with the quality of the parts as well as the level of service - thanks!
VP Product Designer