Stereolithography cures UV-photopolymer resin layer by layer with a focused laser. The result: the smoothest surface finish, finest feature resolution, and most accurate dimensions of any 3D printing technology. Ideal for masters, show models, jewelry patterns, and precision prototypes.
Cosmetic prototypes. Show models for design review, marketing, or investor pitches. SLA parts need only a quick prime-and-paint to look injection-molded.
Castable patterns. Jewelry, dental, and investment-casting masters. Specialty "castable" resins burn out cleanly in the mold.
Fine details. Engravings, small text, threads, textured surfaces — SLA reproduces features down to 0.1 mm that FDM can't approach.
Fit testing. Parts with mating features (snap-fits, living hinges) where dimensional accuracy matters. SLA holds ±0.1 mm routinely.
SLA is not the right choice when: parts will see UV light for extended periods (most resins yellow and become brittle); parts will be loaded in tension (resins are notch-sensitive and fracture suddenly); parts need to be autoclaved (non-biocompatible resins degrade).
| Resin | Best for | Tensile | Elongation | HDT |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard (Clear / White / Grey) | Visual prototypes, design review | 65 MPa | 6% | 73 °C |
| Tough 1500 | Snap-fit prototypes, living hinges | 33 MPa | 51% | 49 °C |
| Durable | Low-friction parts, wear applications | 28 MPa | 55% | 44 °C |
| Rigid 10K | Stiff, dimensionally stable fixtures | 75 MPa | 2% | 218 °C |
| High Temp | Thermal testing, mold inserts | 58 MPa | 3% | 238 °C |
| Castable (Wax) | Jewelry, investment casting masters | 8 MPa | 14% | — |
| Dental SG | Surgical guides (biocompatible) | 60 MPa | 5% | 70 °C |
| Elastic 50A | Rubber-like parts, gaskets | 3 MPa | 160% | — |
For ISO 10993 medical-grade applications (surgical guides, dental trays), we use Formlabs BioMed resins with full traceability documentation.
Smaller features (text, embossed logos) will print, but may not survive post-cure handling. For critical features, 0.5 mm is safer.
Below 0.6 mm, walls flex during support removal and cleaning. For structural walls, 1.2 mm is a reasonable minimum.
Hollow parts must include 2+ drain holes of minimum Ø3 mm to flush uncured resin. Otherwise trapped resin cures later and can crack the shell.
All SLA parts come out of the printer "green" — partially cured. Full properties are reached only after a UV oven post-cure. We include this in lead time.
Support contact points are visible on the finished part. Tell us which surfaces are cosmetic so we orient and support accordingly.
Upload your STL — we will orient for minimum support marks on your critical surfaces and post-cure to full spec.
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