SLA 3D printing for prototypes.
Smooth surfaces, the finest details and dense, dimensionally stable parts: SLA is the right choice wherever a prototype should look and fit like the final product.
How SLA works
- 1
Curing
UV light selectively cures liquid resin – layer by layer, with layer heights from 25 µm.
- 2
Washing
The finished part is cleaned of liquid resin residue in isopropyl alcohol.
- 3
Post-curing
UV light and heat give the resin its final material properties. We then remove the support structures.
Benefits of SLA parts
- Smooth surface: barely visible layer lines, ideal for visual models and photos
- Fine details: small lettering, thin ribs and delicate geometries
- Accurate: typically ±0.15 mm – good for fit checks and assemblies
- Watertight: closed surfaces, also suitable for flow and leak tests
- Uniformly strong: similar strength in all directions, not just along the layers
- Many materials: tough, transparent, heat-resistant up to 238 °C, rubber-like or extremely stiff
SLA or FDM – which suits your part?
Both processes have their strengths. To be honest: not every part needs SLA.
| SLA (resin) | FDM (filament) | |
|---|---|---|
| Surface | smooth, barely visible layers | visible layer lines |
| Details | very fine, layers from 25 µm | coarser, usually 100–300 µm |
| Accuracy | high | medium |
| Strength | similar in all directions | weaker between layers |
| Watertightness | watertight | often porous |
| Large, simple parts | more expensive | cheaper |
Rule of thumb: if appearance, fit or fine details matter, SLA is the better choice. For large, rough brackets without surface requirements, FDM is usually cheaper.
SLA FAQ
What is the difference between SLA and FDM?
In SLA printing UV light cures liquid resin layer by layer, which results in smooth surfaces, fine details and dense parts. FDM melts and deposits a plastic filament – cheaper for large, simple parts, but with visible layer lines.
How accurate is SLA 3D printing?
Layer heights start at 25 µm. Typical tolerances are around ±0.15 mm, depending on the size and geometry of the part. Design tips are available in the price calculator under “Tips for printable files”.
Are SLA parts strong?
It depends on the resin: besides the standard resin there are tough, heat-resistant, rubber-like and glass-filled, extremely stiff materials for functional prototypes. Properties and data sheets are on the home page.
How large can a part be?
Up to 200 × 125 × 210 mm in one piece. Larger parts can often be split and bonded after printing – just ask us.
Does SLA suit your part?
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