Stereolithography (Stereolithography Apparatus) is a process of selective photopolymerisation — the controlled curing of a liquid photoreactive resin by a UV laser or LCD matrix. The technology delivers exceptional geometric accuracy and isotropic mechanical properties.
The process is based on radical or cationic photopolymerisation of acrylate and epoxy monomers under UV light in the 355–405 nm spectral range. Photoinitiators in the resin absorb photon energy and trigger a chain crosslinking reaction, converting the liquid monomer into a solid polymer matrix.
Unlike FDM, the SLA process produces parts with effectively isotropic mechanical properties — Z-axis strength is nearly identical to the XY plane thanks to the chemical bond between layers. After printing, post-processing is required: washing in isopropyl alcohol (IPA) and final UV curing at 60–80 °C for full polymerisation.
Thermally resistant resin with HDT up to 300 °C @ 0.45 MPa, based on highly cross-linked epoxy systems. Maintains geometric stability when in contact with hot fluids and steam. Recommended for thermoforming tools, casting test moulds and exhaust-system components.
Composite photopolymer resin with ceramic micro-particles (silicon dioxide, aluminium oxide). High modulus (> 9 GPa), increased hardness and wear resistance. Suitable for precision mechanical jigs, wear-resistant components and probes.
Certified to EN-ISO 10993-1 / 10993-5 for biocompatibility. Classes for direct mucosal contact (Class IIa). Used for surgical guides, custom splints, temporary crowns and bridges, orthodontic models. Excellent detail (50 µm) and stable dielectric properties.
Specialty resin with minimal residual ash (< 0.1%) for precision lost-wax casting. Used in jewellery and micro-mechanics for producing master patterns for metal castings.
Universal engineering resin with balanced mechanical properties — tensile strength ~50 MPa, elongation up to 24%. Mimics the mechanical behaviour of ABS thermoplastic. For functional prototypes under dynamic loads.