Stereolithography

Type:

Material:

Finish:

Type:

Material:

Finish:

Fractal Tree

Type: Basic

Material: Somos XC11122

Finish: Strip & Ship

Toy Truck

Type:

Material:

Finish:

Housing

Type: Basic

Material: Somos Next

Finish: Vapor Honed

Spinner

Type: Basic

Material: Somos Next

Finish: Vapor Honed

School Balance

Type: Custom

Material: Somos Next

Finish: Engineering Paint

Equipment Model

Type: Custom

Material: Somos Next

Finish: Presentation Paint

Toy Grill

Type: Custom

Material: Somos Next

Finish: Engineering Paint

Watering Can

Type: Custom

Material: Somos Next

Finish: Quick Paint

Toy Bucket

Type: Custom

Material: Somos Next

Finish: Engineering Paint

SLA– What is it?

Features

Stereolithography is the oldest 3D printing technology. More than 70% of the time our clients select SLA for their technology of choice, as it can be used to create very accurate prototypes.

If you’re unsure whether SLA 3D printing or Multi Jet Fusion printing is the right choice for your project, speak to one of our engineers, and they will be happy to assist you.

Benefits for Prototypes

If you need a prototype turned around quickly, SLA might be the best solution. It is able to produce parts with the highest accuracy in 3D printing.

Here are some of the additional benefits of Stereolithography printing for prototypes:

Large Parts
High resolution with extreme accuracy
Best for form and fit
Only technology for clear parts
Quick delivery: just 1-3 days
Prove out Design Quickly & Reliablity
Numerous optional secondary operations and finishes

Why SICAM

Since 1990, our process engineers have been perfecting our understanding of 3D printing and have developed proprietary calibration methods to achieve the most accurate results. We will assist you throughout the entire process, from concept to production to delivery.

29+ Years Experience
Free Technical Support Consultation
Custom Finishing Methods
Advanced Vapor Honed Finish
Quality System & Custom Calibration Methods
Advanced Systems & Post Process Automation
Production Control ERP System

Technology - Quick View

Accuracy/Tolerance

Low

←→

High

Resolution

Low

←→

High

Material:Production-Like

Low

←→

High

Cost per part

Low

←→

High

Delivery-Small Qty(Prototypes)

Slow

←→

Fast

Delivery-Large Qty(Production)

Slow

←→

Fast

Build Volume

23.6 x 23.6 x 19.7

Applications

Stereolithography 3D printing technology is suitable for an array of applications, including:

Presentation models.
Engineering test models
Metal casting patterns.
Architectural models.
Urethane casting patterns.
Assembly fixtures.

Types of SLA Parts

Basic

Basic parts do not include secondary operations except a vapor hone finish. This type of part can be used for fit and function and has the quickest delivery.

Request For Quote

Custom

Custom parts include secondary operations. These can include painting, plating, decorating, texturing, and adding threaded inserts. Call to discuss custom options with an application engineer.

Request For Quote

SLA Materials

Somos® EvoLVe 128

Tough, High Strength Accurate Rapid Prototyping Material

Somos® WaterShed XC11122

Rigid, Tough, Accurate Water Clear Rapid Prototyping Material

Learn More

The Stereolithography Process (SLA)

5 Steps in the Basic Printing Process:

You create a 3-D model of your object in a CAD program.
A piece of software slices your CAD model up into thin layers -- typically .004 to .006 inches.
The 3-D printer directs a focused UV (ultra violet) laser beam into a vat of liquid resin solidifying a thin two-dimensional cross-section layer.
The platform drops down into the tank and a recoater blade sweeps across the solidified layer preparing for the next layer.
This process repeats, layer by layer, until your model is complete.

SLA Frequently Asked Questions

What Layer thickness can be done?
All our SLA processes run at either .004 or .006 inch layers. Our customers have found that .004 is the best solution for details and .006 will grow quicker.
What is the turnaround time for a SLA?
Orders usually ship within two to four business days from the time of order. Large parts, secondary operations, and current backlog can take longer.
Can stereolithography (SLA) models be machined?
Yes, stereolithography (SLA) models can be drilled, reamed, milled, or turned on a lathe, depending on the geometry.
What Tolerances can be expected?
Typical tolerances on our SLA models are about +/- 0.005 for the 1st inch and .0005 each additional inch. Part geometry and build orientation can also have an effect on tolerances.
Can SLA be painted?
Yes, it can be painted in a matched color with different finishes and textures. See the finish and option tabs for what is available.
What kind of texture does SLA have?
As per the process there are grow lines from the layering required to build the part. Alternative textures and finishes can be applied through secondary operations. Click on the finish and options tabs to get more information.
Can it be flexible?
It depends on the SLA material used. The Somos XC11122 is rigid like a polycarbonate. The Somos EvoLVe is a little more flexible than ABS, but not as much as Polypropylene.
Is it as strong as ABS?
SLA resins properties have improved greatly over the years and are coming closer to ABS properties. Click on the materials tab to compare the physical properties of our SLA printing materials.
Can you print in different colors.
The SLA process can only print parts with the color of the resin used. Secondary operatons can be used to apply surface colors as desired.
Is it clear?
The Somos XC11122 is clear with a slight blue tint to it. The Somos EvoLVe 128 is opaque white.
What does SLA stand for?
StereoLithography Apparatus

Stereolithography Projects and Resources

Choosing the Best Technology for Rapid Prototyping Mechanical Parts
The best way to improve communication and facilitate better feedback and decision-making from stakeholders is with prototypes. Early-stage prototyping not only helps you more effectively convey design ideas, but also...

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SICAM Partners With Amloid Toys to Help Triple Sales
At SICAM, we continue to perfect our 3D printing processes and technology, building on over three decades of history and expertise in the industry. However, we also proud to help other companies success through our rapid...

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Check Out Our New Online Quote and Ordering System!
At SICAM, we’ve spent almost three decades perfecting our 3D printing processes. Now, it’s easier than ever to get a quote online and even place an order instantly. To get started, simply log in to your account; or, if...

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Goodbye old friend!
On September 15, 2017 the Cassini spacecraft plunged into the the atmosphere of Saturn, ending it's nearly 20 year mission to explore the planet. The spacecraft was launched in 1997 and arrived at Saturn in 2004. It...

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Let your Designs EvoLVe
Sicam officially releases Somos EvoLVe 128 into production after weeks of evaluation.

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Architectural Models with Sharp Details
Challenge: Sicam received a call from an architectural client explaining that they had a very important customer presentation in 4 days. They needed SLA models to show their latest design. We suggested they send the...

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Standing the Test of Time
Somos had completed a one-year aging test of Somos material used at Sicam, the Somos XC 11122 and the Somos Next.

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Is the best SLA resin an open and shut case?
How durable is Somos Next Resin? The only way to tell is to test it. That is just what we did. This useful material can be used for many different applications depending on the needs and sustainability of the...

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A “GOOD” STL! What’s That?
The STL file format has become recognized as the standard for RP machines. Note that STL files are produced by CAD systems that are based on surface and/or solid modeling only. 2-Dimensional and Wireframe CAD systems do...

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