SLA 3D printing: precision, finish and performance for your technical parts

SLA (stereolithography) 3D printing uses a laser or light source to photopolymerize (cure) liquid resins layer by layer. The result: highly accurate parts , smooth surface finishes , and excellent detail reproduction , ideal for demanding prototyping and functional applications.

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How ALS Works, in Brief

1. Resin vat : a photosensitive liquid resin.

2. Light exposure : Light selectively solidifies each layer according to geometry.

3. Raising the platform : the part is built up layer by layer until the final height.

4. Post-treatment : rinsing, post-polymerization (UV) , then finishing.

Key strengths : precision, fine detail, smooth surfaces, thin walls.
Point of attention : choice of resin according to use (temperature, rigidity, impact, biocompatibility, etc.).

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Technical resins available (examples of uses)

• Standard/Engineering : visual prototypes, housings, clips, lightweight snap-ins.

• Tough / Durable : impact resistance, snap-in parts, flexible hinges.

• High-Temp : assembly jigs, low-run molds, hot environments.

• Rigid (fiber/glass filled) : dimensional stability, thin walls, high dimensional accuracy.

• Flexible / Elastomer : seals, shock absorbers, flexible parts (variable shore).

• Bio/Medical (depending on grade) : non-implantable devices, prototype guides (check conformity).

At 3DVertical, we help you select the resin according to mechanical, thermal and regulatory constraints.

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Capabilities & tolerances (practical benchmarks)

• Typical accuracy : up to ±0.05 mm (depending on geometry, orientation and post-processing).

• Common layer thickness : 50–100 μm (thinner possible if required).

• Recommended minimum walls : 0.6–1.0 mm (depending on resin and stress).

• Fine details : holes/engravings from 0.4–0.6 mm (to be validated according to orientation).

SLA 3DVertical print volume

• Up to 218.88 × 122.88 × 220 mm (L × W × H).

For larger parts, we can section and assemble or offer an FDM alternative .

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SLA Benefits

• Superior finish (smooth surface, few streaks).

• Very high precision (fine details, tight tolerances).

• Thin walls & complex geometries possible.

• Wide choice of resins for targeted properties (rigidity, temperature, flexibility, etc.).

Points to consider

• Viscoelastic behavior of resins (less tough than a thermoplastic like ABS).

• UV aging : provide varnish/paint for exterior use.

• Post-treatment required (rinse + UV).

• Chemical/thermal resistance : highly dependent on resin (critical choice).

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Good design practices (Design for SLA)

• Minimum thickness : aim for ≥ 0.8 mm for functional walls.

• Threads : prefer metal inserts or light tapping with caution.

• Holes & housings : allow +0.1 to 0.2 mm of play depending on the desired fit.

• Orientation : affects surface quality and precision (we optimize it for you).

• Lettering/engravings : depth ≥ 0.4 mm for clear reading.

• Assemblies : consider chamfers and anti-stick offsets for post-processing.

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Post-processing available

• Standard : rinsing, post-UV , deburring.

• Aesthetics : fine sanding, priming, painting, tint/translucency.

• Functional : anti-UV varnish, sealing, tapping, inserts, gluing/assembly.

• Metrology : dimensional control on critical dimensions (on request).

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When to choose SLA over FDM?

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Typical use cases

• High-end visual prototypes (design, marketing, fit & finish).

• Precision parts : micro-details, light snap-ins, housings.

• Tools & templates (with high-temp/rigid resins).

• Short series functional parts : small series in technical resin.

• Low pressure molds/imprints , light thermoforming (depending on resin).