3D Printing Service:
Stereolithography
Our stereolithography services offer:
- High-Resolution Parts
- Large Models, Prototypes, and Master Patterns
- Wide Range of Materials
- Instant and Engineer-Assisted Quotes
- Certifications: ISO 9001:2015, AS9100D, and ITAR
- Instant and Engineer-Assisted Quotes
- Certifications: ISO 9001:2015, AS9100D, and ITAR
-
Instant and
Engineer-Assisted
Quotes - 100+ Materials
-
40+ Surface
Finishes -
Certifications:
ISO 9001:2015,
AS9100D, and ITAR -
In-House Services: 3D Printing,
CNC Machining, Urethane Casting,
and Sheet Metal Fabrication
Our Simple Process
Upload your project’s CAD file.
We review your file and provide design for manufacturability (DFM) feedback.
Once complete, it passes through quality control.
Our team ships your product anywhere in the USA.
What is stereolithography?
Stereolithography is an exact, resin-based 3D printing technology. This additive manufacturing process uses an advanced laser to cure liquid photopolymer resin — transforming digital designs into real-world parts from the bottom up. As the laser traces and hardens each layer of the liquid resin vat, it leaves highly intricate designs and exceptional surface finishes.
SLA is an excellent option for prototyping and manufacturing complex components and specialized parts in industries like health care, automotive, aerospace, and consumer goods.
How does stereolithography work?
It all begins with you — your vision to create a unique product that solves challenges. Our team of additive manufacturing (AM) technicians then collaborates with you to bring your idea to life. Once you send us your CAD file, we put our advanced stereolithography technology to work, manufacturing components to your precise specifications. Here’s how it works:
- Upload a CAD to the SLA printer, where the software generates the printer instructions.
- The printer’s vat is full of the required liquid resin for the project.
- This process uses structural supports, which are positioned based on the part’s orientation.
- A UV laser carefully traces each layer’s cross-sections, curing the resin where it touches.
- The build platform moves down with each pass, with a bar moving across the surface to recoat the platform.
- The process repeats, building the object from the bottom up.
After printing your component, the parts are carefully cleaned using specialized solvents and then undergo a UV curing cycle to harden and stabilize the material fully. Finally, the part goes to our finishing department.
Advantages of Stereolithography
Stereolithography technology has revolutionized the way products are designed and manufactured. The following are a few of the advantages of stereolithography:
- Produces isotropic end-use parts and prototypes with uniform strength throughout.
- Large build envelopeLarge build envelope in a single print job for increased efficiency.
- Delivers components with high detail and resolution.
- Quickly turns digital designs into physical parts.
Disadvantages of Stereolithography
While there are a lot of advantages to stereolithography, there are also some disadvantages to consider:
- It requires additional support structures.
- Careful planning is needed to optimize the build orientation.
- Parts are photosensitive and not suitable for outdoor applications.
SLA 3D Printing Services at Prototek
Stereolithography (SLA) is one of the most exact 3D printing technologies. As your additive manufacturing partner, Prototek can assist you in creating SLA prototypes, custom tools, and end-use parts capable of exceptionally fine detail. This process is standard in various applications, including medical, dental, automotive, aerospace, and functional consumer products.
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 SLA Materials
In stereolithography, selecting the right materials is a key step to achieving the required functional and aesthetic requirements for your application. At Prototek, we offer a wide range of resins to ensure your 3D-printed part has the correct mechanical and physical properties.
Our AM Material Pro can help you compare and contrast additive manufacturing materials, with options including:
Accura® 25
Accura® 25 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
Accura® 60
Accura® 60 is a high-performance, clear plastic perfect for producing solid, rigid parts.
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
Accura® ClearVue
Accura® ClearVue is known for its exceptional clarity and 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
Accura® ABS Black
Accura® ABS Black features a balanced property profile and superior quality, ensuring a high level of print 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
Accura® AMX Rigid Black
Accura® AMX Rigid Black is a unique formulation that 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
Accura® AMX Tough FR V0 Black
Accura® AMX Tough FR V0 Black produces durable, flame-resistant parts for the most 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
Accura® SL 5530
Accura® SL 5530 creates translucent, functional pieces that are solid and stable.
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
Accura® Xtreme
Accura® Xtreme is a unique blend that 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
Accura® Xtreme White 200
Accura® Xtreme White 200 is a durable, inflexible material recognized for its ability to capture intricate details.
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
Somos® BioClear
Somos® BioClear is a colorless resin that produces parts with exceptional clarity 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
Somos® EvoLVe 128
Somos® EvoLVe 128 is a stiff and strong material that exhibits exceptional moisture resistance, making it suitable for use in humid, 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
Somos® PerFORM
Somos® PerFORM is a specialized blend of resins and composites that produces durable products with unparalleled capabilities.
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 offers exceptional detail, accuracy, and thermal resistance for various applications.
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
Somos® Taurus
Somos® Taurus is a high-performance thermoplastic resin known for its exceptional strength and durability.
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
Somos® WaterClear Ultra 10122
Somos® WaterClear Ultra 10122 is a translucent and durable material that can produce high-quality parts with excellent detail.
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
Somos® WaterShed Black
Somos® WaterShed Black’s exceptional thermal stability and strength make it ideal for various applications.
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
Somos® WaterShed XC 11122
Somos® WaterShed XC 11122 combines mechanical strength and dimensional stability, making it suitable for a 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.
Stereolithography Design Recommendations
With Prototek experts working alongside you, we will help you consider all essential design factors to ensure the success of your stereolithography project, including:
- Support structures: When working with SLA technology, it’s crucial to consider the support structures required for stability and successful production.
- Part orientation: The part position in the printer is critical to the strength and quality of the final product.
- Design creation: Creating designs with high resolution and intricate details helps maximize the smoothness of your SLA-printed model.
- Materials selection: We help you choose suitable materials based on the desired properties of your final product.
| Feature | Measurement | |
|---|---|---|
|
|
Connecting & Moving Parts |
0.03 in |
|
|
Escape Holes |
0.04 in |
|
|
Embossing & Engraving |
Width: 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 |
|
|
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, we offer diverse cutting-edge stereolithography finishes to meet your 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 produces finished products that meet the highest standards.
Stereolithography Finishes
| Level | Process |
|---|---|
|
Unfinished |
Straight off the machine no extra finishing or post-processing. |
|
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. |
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Prototek's
Other Additive Manufacturing Technologies
Why choose Prototek for your next stereolithography project?
Prototek is the perfect choice for stereolithography. When you work with our experienced AM experts, you will benefit from our:
- Vast experience in rapid prototyping and advanced technology, creating accurate stereolithography printed models and functional parts.
- Adherence to strict ISO 9001:2015 and AS9100D quality management standards — ensuring the most reliable models for the aerospace, medical, and automotive industries.
- Experienced team that 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. Request a custom quote for SLA 3D printing today.