Stereolithography (SLA) 3D Printing
Stereolithography (SLA) produces components using a precise UV laser to cure and solidify thin layers of a photo-reactive resin. One of the most accurate 3D printing technologies, SLA is ideal for concept models, rapid prototypes, master patterns, form and fit studies, and investment casting patterns. SLA parts can be clear, and can be finished in multiple ways to meet your needs, including painting, plating, and the installation of threaded inserts or other components. In addition, we can section and bond multiple pieces of a larger part design quickly and seamlessly to create oversized models.
Advantages of SLA Manufacturing
Materials
Leadtime
Most SLA projects ship out in a standard lead time of 3 – 5 business days, but this can often be expedited if necessary.
Tolerances
SLA prototypes can achieve tolerances of +/- .005” for the first inch, plus an additional +/- .002” for each additional inch.
Get a quote now and transform your CAD designs into elegant models, patterns and prototypes.
Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)
Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) creates tough and geometrically intricate components using a high-powered CO2 laser to fuse powdered thermoplastics. As a part is made, it remains encased in powder, creating a built-in support system. This eliminates the need for specific support structures and allows for complex geometries. SLS production parts can be strong, water and air-tight, heat resistant, and made out of a range of nylon options. SLS parts are ideal for functional testing, rapid prototyping, and additive manufactured parts, and are a great option for applications requiring a high heat or chemically resistant material.
Advantages
Durable and strong parts. Heat and chemically resistant.
Material
Lead Time
Most SLS projects ship out in a standard lead time of 3 – 5 business days.
Tolerances
SLS prototypes can achieve tolerances of +/- .005” for the first inch, plus an additional +/- .002” for each additional inch.
Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) – also known as DMP (Direct Metal Printing) – uses a precise, high-wattage laser to micro-weld powdered metals and alloys to form fully functional metal components direct from CAD data. In many cases, DMLS eliminates time-consuming tooling, and can create complex geometries not possible with other metal manufacturing processes. While Stainless Steel is by far the most commonly utilized material, other options include Inconel, Aluminum, and Titanium. DMLS parts are strong, durable, and heat-resistant. DMLS parts are also denser than investment cast metal parts. This accurate metal 3D printing process provides fine feature detail, making it ideal for complex oil and gas components, intricately detailed small components, custom medical guides, consolidated aerospace parts, and tough functional prototypes.
Minimum Feature Size:
.005” – .008”.
Density:
99.6% – 100%
DMLS Materials
Titanium Stainless Steel Aluminum CoCr