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SLA

STEREOLITHOGRAPHY

Ideal for small or large, highly detailed show models and clear “lens like” parts.!

The SLA (Stereolithography) process is most commonly used by BuildParts for; Design verification, show/display models, sculptures, urethane casting patterns, see thru bottles and parts for “lens like” clear applications.

SLA is also used by many of our customers looking for large parts and housings with smooth production surfaces, while capturing incredible detail.  They can easily be painted and used as show models. Due to the tremendous amount of achievable detail, speed and ability to finish quickly, SLA models are also commonly used in the Special Effects Industry.

Typically built with a 0.004″ layer slice, large parts can be produced quickly and are included with a Standard finish level (Exterior, sanded smooth to remove visible layer lines).  Large parts can be cost effective when ordering more than one unit at a time.

If you are a model shop looking for “Support Removed Only” SRO parts, please notify use for reduced pricing.

Perfect for; fit, form, show models, as well as, master patterns when creating rubber molds.

With many materials available, it’s generally a good idea to discuss your SLA needs with a knowledgeable BuildParts representative at; 847-639-1000

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  • With a high resolution slice and easier to pattern finish materials; SLA’s make perfect mold masters & painted show models.
  • The fastest way to achieve quality clear “lens like” parts, which may also be polished or tinted to mimic IR or LED windows.
  • Large parts can be inexpensive when ordered in multiples.
  • Watershed is great for containers or products directly exposed to water for long periods of time.
  • Good; fit, form & function models which need to mimic HDPE, Polypropylene & other thermoplastics. Large parts and multiples, can be produced at a reasonable rate.
  • Typical Lead-times 2 to 3 days.

MATERIALS

  • SLA models can be built up to: 25.6″ x 29.5″ x 21.65″ (650mm x 750mm x 550mm).
  • Larger models of virtually any size, can be sectioned and assembled upon completion.
  • High Definition/High Resolution Slice Available at: 0.002″
  • Standard Resolution Slice: 0.004″ (CIDEAS’ recommended build resolution)
  • Accuracy: +/- .005″ for the first 5 inches, +/- .001″ inch per inch thereafter.
  • Great part repeatability.
  • Smooth surface with no visible layer lines (once sanded or vapor honed), better than average text, filigree and small detailed features.
SLA instead of Polyjet
  • Larger parts, (over 3″ x 3″ x 3″) can be considerably less expensive than Polyjet. SLA has a higher general heat deflection, crisper edges and much smoother surfaces.
SLA instead of FDM
  • Although more brittle if dropped, SLA’s have finer layer lines and are considerably less labor intensive when used as master patterns or finished for production or show quality paint. Large parts ordered in decent quantities can be less expensive as well .
SLA instead of SLS
  • Smoother surface, better leadtimes on large parts. Better sectioned parts with less natural warp caused by the process itself. SLA’s produce much better patterns and show parts.
  • Most SLA parts are shipped with a Standard finish level (the support material is removed and the “A” side layer lines are sanded or vapor honed smooth)
  • Premium finish includes layers removed on all surfaces (production like surface), primer ready.
  • Painting; Primed, sanded and painted to match a color chip or specific Pantone color. May also be used as a mold ready pattern (primer finish).
  • Clear parts: A simple clear part has a light sanding and clear coat applied (least expensive but visible layer lines). Polished offers the most realistic clear parts but are priced higher.
  • Shielding; Parts can be sprayed with an EMI shield or static dissipative coating.
  • Available metal coatings; vacuum metallizing, painted chrome (with different tints available) & electroplating in nickel, polished or unpolished. Call if a custom metal “look is required”.

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