Stereolithography is a 3D printing technology that creates parts through a process known as photopolymerisation. In this process, ultraviolet light is focused in a vat of resin. The ultraviolet light beams in the shape of the object to be produced solidifying it layer by layer. After each layer is produced, it is raised out of the vat and the process is repeated.
Size limitations
The maximum build size offer by Xometry for SLA is 480 x 480 x 560 mm, while the minimum printable feature size is 0.1 mm. Achievable tolerance is ±0.2% (min. 0.2 mm).
Wall Thickness
The recommended minimum wall thickness for unsupported walls is 0.6 mm. Walls that are supported on both sides can be designed with a minimum thickness of 0.4 mm as these are less likely to warp.
Overhangs
SLA printing utilizes a lot of support structures. Usually, slicing tools detect necessary positions for support structures in a model and add them. Hence, overhangs are usually no problem. However, if it is necessary to print without support, unsupported overhangs must not be more than 1 mm in length and be at a minimum angle of 19°.
Holes
To ensure that holes do not seal off during printing, design them with a minimum diameter of 0.75 mm. For holes longer than 12 mm. The minimum diameter can be slightly increased.
Assemblies
SLA can print fully functional assemblies. However, adequate clearances must be designed between mating parts to prevent the assembly from turning into a single solid unit. Minimum clearances of 0.5 mm between moving parts and 0.2 mm for assembly connections are recommended.
Engravings & Embossing
The precision of SLA makes it suitable for printing embossed and engraved details including texts. Embossed features must be at least 0.3 mm in height and 0.4 mm wide, while engraved features require a minimum depth of 0.4 mm and a width of 0.5mm.
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