Stereolithography (SLA) Models: The Best Way To Make Accurate Models

When clients need models created that are specific to their design Stereolithography is an excellent solution. Stereolithography is a manufacturing process that is used to create accurate models of a product. These models can vary in technicality and size. Stereolithography is also known as solid free-form fabrication, optical fabrication, 3D printing, solid imaging, or photo solidification.

Time line for completing model production

The time line for completing a model will range from somewhere between a couple of hours to over a day. The complexity and length of the design ultimately determine how long it will take to get the model produced. Many of the SLA machines have a maximum size limit for a part. This size limit is usually 20" X 20" X 24".

Benefits of models produced with Stereolithography

When using Stereolithography to create models you get the following benefits:

• A strong and very sturdy final product
• Stereolithography can be used to create injection moulding patterns, metal casting process, thermoforming and even blow moulding
• Can create models in any size and shape

To purchase a machine to handle this process you would need to spend between one hundred and five hundred thousand dollars. Add this to the cost of the materials that are needed to operate it and the cost gets even higher and many people would say that it is an expensive investment.

The process

The final product is created using a vat of liquid resin and a laser beam. A pattern is shot into the resin by the laser. The laser causes the resin to harden which creates the initial outline of the model. This process is repeated again and again and each time another layer of solidified resin forms and bonds to the layer that was created just before. This continues until the model is complete and is in a tangible three dimensional form.

It is necessary to use support structures to hold the piece in place during the creation. These support structures keep the resin from slipping down. In the initial design in the CAD system, the supports are designed and then are manipulated in a manual fashion so that they are effective for their needs. After the process is complete they must be removed manually as well.

Mathematical models and algorithms have been created recently that are intended to mimic the process of Stereolithography. These algorithms allow the users to determine in advance if a particular product can be created using this process and if this system will be effective for a customer’s needs. Much time is reduced in the analysis portion of the project when these algorithms are used. Customers are sure to like the fact that they can see if this process is a good for them.

Technology is continuing to advance and as it does we are sure to see more cost effective ways to use this technology. Stereolithography has become so popular because of the high quality results that are produced.

Please contact JH May to discuss your model making and Stereolithography needs.