Material Description
SLA resin, also known as Stereolithography resin, is a photopolymer material used in additive manufacturing processes like SLA 3D printing. This resin exhibits a unique combination of material properties that make it ideal for creating high-resolution, intricate, and detailed prototypes and parts. SLA resin typically features high tensile strength, often exceeding 60 MPa, which ensures the durability and structural integrity of the printed objects. Its excellent stiffness, with a modulus of around 2.5 GPa, allows for the production of rigid and precise components. Moreover, SLA resin offers impressive heat resistance, with a glass transition temperature (Tg) ranging from 40°C to 80°C, depending on the specific formulation, which is advantageous for applications requiring resistance to elevated temperatures. Additionally, this resin boasts exceptional dimensional accuracy and fine surface finish, thanks to its low shrinkage during the curing process and minimal layer lines, making it an excellent choice for producing intricate, highly detailed parts for a wide range of industries, including aerospace, automotive, and healthcare. Its light-transmissive properties also enable the fabrication of transparent or translucent parts, making it a versatile material for various prototyping and manufacturing needs.
Common Industry Applications
SLA resin is used in industries such as aerospace, medical devices, robotics, and more for high-precision prototyping and production of intricate components.
Sub-Processes
3D Printing – Stereolithography (SLA)
| Density (g/cm³) | Tensile Yield Strength (MPa) | Flexural Strength (MPa) | Impact Strength (J/m) | Heat Deflection Temp (°C) | Thermal Conductivity (W/m·K) | Glass Transition Temp(°C) | UV Resistance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.05 - 1.20 | 35 - 70 | 50 - 90 | 5 - 20 | Varies | Low | Varies | UV post processing |
Design Recommendation
Stereolithography (SLA) resin printing is a photopolymerization process that involves curing liquid resin layer by layer using a UV laser. To optimize design for SLA, focus on generating support structures for overhangs and complex geometries, as they may sag or deform during printing. Additionally, consider the necessity of post-processing steps, such as UV curing and part cleaning. When designing your model, pay attention to wall thickness; thinner walls may save resin but could compromise structural integrity. Also, experiment with part orientation to balance print quality, speed, and resin consumption.
Cost Saving Tip
Cost-saving with SLA resin 3D printing involves optimizing part orientation and minimizing support structures. This is achieved by leveraging software that automatically generates efficient support structures and nesting multiple parts on the build platform to maximize printing efficiency. Additionally, recycling excess resin from support structures and regularly maintaining the resin tank can extend the life of the resin and reduce material waste.
