Stereolithography

Stereolithography (SLA, STL) is an advanced additive manufacturing process used mainly to produce prototypes from three-dimensional CAD data. This process, also known as rapid prototyping, makes it possible to create complex and precise models directly from digital designs.

In stereolithography, a liquid photopolymer resin that cures under ultraviolet (UV) light is processed layer by layer into a solid object. The process begins with a CAD model, which is broken down into many thin layers. A UV laser or a UV light source selectively illuminates the resin according to the contours of the respective layer of the CAD model. Where the light hits the resin, it cures and forms a solid layer. This process is repeated layer by layer until the entire object is created.

After the printing process, the object is removed from the resin bath and subjected to post-processing. This can include removing excess resin, curing in a UV oven for complete polymerisation and possibly grinding or polishing the surface in order to achieve the desired quality and precision.

Stereolithography is particularly useful in fields that require high precision and detail accuracy, such as medicine, automotive engineering, aerospace and jewellery design. Because of its ability to produce fine details and smooth surfaces, it is frequently used for the production of prototypes, models, patterns and even functional components.