Stereolithography delivers micro-detail, smooth surfaces and tight tolerances from a broad range of engineering photopolymers. The benchmark process for visual prototypes, functional models and investment casting patterns.
SLA uses a UV laser to cure liquid photopolymer resin layer by layer, producing parts with near-injection-moulded surface quality, complex internal features and feature resolution down to 0.1mm. It is the preferred process when surface aesthetics, fine detail or transparent/translucent properties are required.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Max Build Volume | Up to 800 x 800 x 550 mm (platform dependent) |
| Layer Thickness | 0.025 – 0.150 mm |
| Dimensional Accuracy | ±0.1 mm or ±0.1% (whichever greater) |
| Minimum Wall Thickness | 0.5 mm (recommended 0.8 mm) |
| Surface Finish (Ra) | 0.2 – 1.6 µm (top surfaces, as-built) |
| Standard Lead Time | 3 – 5 business days |
| Specialty Resin Lead Time | 5 – 8 business days |
| Accepted File Formats | STL, STEP, OBJ, 3MF, IGES |
10 engineering resins covering every application from visual models to castable patterns and high-temperature functional parts.
Full traceability from CAD upload to QA sign-off and dispatch.
We work with engineers, designers and procurement teams across Australia every day.
"I would highly recommend Pratik at 3D Printing — with his analytical mind he helped re-engineer a component for an electric scooter. The final design was cost effective, strong and an exact fit."
"Can't speak more highly of this Company. They overcame many difficulties through their tenacity and patience. I highly recommend this company for any 3D prototyping, design or development of your idea."
"Great service, quick turnaround — I needed parts scanned, a couple of design changes and printed. All done quickly, efficiently and A+ quality. Definitely recommend the team at 3D Prototyping."
"It was a pleasure dealing with 3D Prototyping. They are professional and their customer service is excellent. I would recommend these guys any time over any other players in this industry."
"This Company is good, efficient and easy to deal with. Their advice and knowledge around materials really helped us get what we needed. Great service provided. We will certainly use this company again."
Upload your CAD file and tell us what you need. We respond with a detailed quote — usually same business day.
SLA (Stereolithography) uses a UV laser to selectively cure liquid photopolymer resin in a vat, building parts layer by layer from 25 to 150 microns thick. The result is parts with exceptionally smooth surfaces, fine feature resolution and tight dimensional accuracy — typically ±0.1mm. After printing, parts undergo solvent washing and UV post-curing to achieve full mechanical properties.
SLA produces the smoothest surfaces and finest detail of any FFF/vat process, making it ideal for visual models, master patterns and medical models. SLS produces stronger, more isotropic engineering parts in nylon without supports — better for functional and production use. FDM is fastest and cheapest for large structural prototypes but produces visible layer lines. Choose SLA when surface finish and detail are the priority.
For standard visual prototypes: KS408A (white), KS608A (grey) or KS808-BK (black). For transparency: KS158T or Somos WaterShed XC 11122. For flexible parts: KS198S or SOMOS 9120. For high-temperature applications (>200°C): KS1208H. For investment casting: KS168C. For tough/ABS-like: GORDART 8228. Not sure? Tell us your application and we'll recommend the right resin.
All SLA parts include standard IPA wash and UV post-cure. Additional options include support sanding, primer and paint (RAL/Pantone matched), clear lacquer for transparent parts, polishing to optical clarity for VeroClear-equivalent resins, and insert installation (heat-set M2–M8). Specify your finishing requirements in the enquiry form.
STL is the standard format. We also accept STEP, OBJ, 3MF and IGES. For assemblies, supply individual STL bodies or a STEP assembly file with clearly named components. Ensure your file is watertight (manifold) with wall thickness above 0.5mm. Our team will check your file for printability before quoting and flag any issues.
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