At Purple, we have over 25 3D printers in-house, each fitting a specific customer need, from concept prototypes to functional parts. We recently added another technology – Stereolithography – and I’m incredibly excited about the value it’s adding for our Purple Porcupine customers.
What Is Stereolithography?
Like PolyJet and DLP printing, Stereolithography (SLA) uses resin-based materials with a twist to its internal curing process. SLA uses a Vat polymerization process. A high-powered UV laser selectively cures the resin, layer by layer, until the part is complete.
Where It Works Best
Although it can be used for a wide range of applications, we’ve found that SLA is well-suited for concept models, master patterns, and protective housing/packaging parts.
The Stratasys Neo450 printer has a large build volume (17.72” x 17.72” x 15.75”) and fine layer resolution (50 to 200 μm), making it ideal for printing big parts or a large volume of small parts. Plus, it has a 2-Watt variable beam, and a higher accuracy than other systems on the market.
Here are some SLA application examples:
- Encase your favorite trophy or electronics in a protective shell
- Print a large lens prototype for your automotive light design or a fitment jig for your chassis
- Bring your creative sculpture to life in a tangible/shareable 3D printed form
- Fill the link in your product development chain when moving to mass production
When designing and 3D printing fast, smooth parts with repeatable accuracy, SLA is the right choice.
How Does It Compare?
Every project is best suited for a specific technology, depending on part requirements and application. One of the things our Porcupine team does best is help our customers utilize the right 3D printer for their needs.
Here is a general comparison of each additive technology:
At Purple, we interact with a lot of amazing people and teams from industries across the board. With Porcupine’s access to Stratasys’s suite of 3D printing technologies and materials we can meet just about any need you have for your prints. Give us a call at 949.474.7222 or an email at [email protected] to schedule a tour.
Meet Talena Graham
Meet Marketing Manager, Talena Graham. Talena is responsible for our online presence, print and digital marketing, open house events and trade shows, as well as managing our incredible marketing team. Her favorite part about working at Purple is the culture.
Outside of the office, Talena enjoys listening to audiobooks, a good cup of tea, and going to baseball games. If you haven’t met Talena yet, be sure to connect with her on LinkedIn.
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