Stereolithography (SLA)
Focusing on High-Resolution Prototyping
Achieve detailed prototypes and end-use parts by curing liquid photopolymer resin layer by layer using a high-accuracy UV light source. This method is perfect for complex geometries, fine features, and stringent high-resolution design requirements, delivering a significantly smoother surface finish than other methods.
- Exceptional Detail & Finish: Ideal for visual prototypes and parts requiring minimal post-processing.
- Diverse Resin Portfolio: Access high-strength, tough, and specialty resins for functional models.
- Layer-by-Layer Precision Manufacturing.
- Quick Lead Times & Affordable Costs
Advantages of SLA Technology
Superior Surface Finish
SLA produces parts with the smoothest surface finish straight off the printer compared to most other 3D printing technologies (like FDM). This results in parts that are aesthetically excellent and require significantly less post-processing (sanding, polishing) for final use.
Highest Resolution and Detail
The precision of the laser curing liquid resin allows for exceptionally small feature sizes and tighter tolerances. This makes SLA ideal for applications requiring intricate geometry, fine details, and complex components, such as jewelry or detailed miniature models.
Tight Dimensional Accuracy
SLA parts exhibit excellent dimensional accuracy and precision, making them highly suitable for functional prototyping where parts need to fit together perfectly, and for applications requiring specific, repeatable measurements.
Watertight and Isotropic Parts:
Due to the method of curing liquid resin, SLA parts are solid, isotropic (meaning properties are the same in all directions), and can be easily made watertight and airtight without further sealing, which is a key advantage for fluid-handling prototypes or casings.
Wide Range of Specialty Resins
SLA offers a versatile material palette, including resins with properties mimicking engineering plastics (like ABS and PP), high-temperature resistance, flexibility, and even materials safe for specific applications (e.g., biocompatible resins).
Fast Turnaround for Small/Medium Builds
While large-volume production can be slower than other methods, for smaller and medium-sized high-detail parts, SLA offers a relatively quick build time, allowing for rapid iteration and prototyping cycles.
Discover Our Technologies and Capabilities
Formlabs Fuse 30W+
Fused Deposition Modeling
ColorJet Printing
Industrial FDM
Our Full SLA Material Portfolio
Tough 2000 Resin
Strong & Stiff; High Strength; Designed to withstand high stress and strain.
Tough 1500 Resin
Resilient & Pliable; Fast Spring back; Balances stiffness and elongation.
True Cast Resin
Wax-Filled Casting; Low Ash Content; Designed for precision investment casting patterns.
Biomedical Resins
USP Class VI Compliant; Biocompatible; Range of properties (clear, rigid, flexible, dental).
Elastic 50A Resin
Shore Durometer 50A; Very soft and highly compressible; excellent elongation.
Flexible 80A Resin
Shore Durometer 80A; Simulates the stiffness of rubber or soft TPU; high elongation.
Clear Resin
Transparent & Stiff; Excellent clarity; can be polished to near-optical transparency.
Rigid 10K Resin
Extremely Stiff & Strong; Glass-filled; highest stiffness and heat resistance among Formlabs resins.
High Temp Resin
High Heat Deflection Temperature (HDT); High stiffness and strength.
Flame Retardant (FR) Resin
Self-Extinguishing; Halogen-Free; UL 94 V-0 and FAR 25.853 rated; high stiffness.