SLA (Stereolithography) is a process that is most commonly used by C.ideas, for creating urethane casting patterns, see thru bottles and parts for "lens like" clear applications. SLA is also used by many of our customers looking for large parts and housings with smooth production surfaces. They can easily be painted and used as show models.
Typically built with a 0.004" layer slice, large parts can be produced quickly and are included with a Standard finish level (Exterior, sanded smooth to remove visible layer lines). Large parts can be cost effective when ordering more than one unit at a time. If you are a model shop looking for "Support Removed Only" SRO parts, please notify us for reduced pricing.
Perfect for; fit, form, show models, as well as, master patterns when creating rubber molds.
With many materials available, it's generally a good idea to discuss your SLA needs with a knowledgeable C.ideas representative at; 847-639-1000.
With a high resolution slice and easier to pattern finish materials; SLA’s make perfect mold masters & painted show models.
The fastest way to achieve quality clear "lens like" parts, which may also be polished or tinted to mimic IR or LED windows.
Large parts can be inexpensive when ordered in multiples.
Watershed is great for containers or products directly exposed to water for long periods of time.
Good; fit, form & function models which need to mimic HDPE, Polypropelene & other thermoplastics. Large parts and multiples, can be produced at a reasonable rate.
Typical Lead-times 3 to 4 days.
SLA models can be built up to: 25.6" x 29.5" x 21.65" (650mm x 750mm x 550mm).
Larger models of virtually any size, can be sectioned and assembled upon completion.
High Resolution Slice: 0.002"
Standard Resolution Slice: 0.004" (C.ideas supplies this resolution for nearly all builds)
High Speed Slice: 0.006"
Accuracy: +/- .005" for the first 5 inches, +/- .001" inch per inch thereafter.
Great part repeatability.
Smooth surface with no visible layer lines (once sanded or vapor honed), better than average text, filigree and small detailed features.
| Accura 60: Best polished clear "lens like" applications & good overall material. Frosted (standard finish). |
| Accura 25: Similar in look and feel to polypropylene, good snap fit and rigid flex. Opaque white |
| Accura Xtreme: High strength performance material, looks like an engineering plastic. Opaque Grey |
| Somos 9420: Similar in look and feel to polypropylene, good snap fit and rigid flex. Opaque white |
| Somos 11122: Best for humidity, good general purpose. Frosted (standard finish) can be polished clear. |
| Somos 18420: Good general purpose material, looks like an engineering plastic. Opaque White |
| Somos DMX: High strength performance material, looks like an engineering plastic. Opaque White |
| Somos NanoTool: Brittle high temp material, with thermal post cure it can achieve up to 506f. Tan |
- SLA instead of Polyjet
- SLA instead of FDM
- SLA instead of SLS
Larger parts, (over 6" x 6" x 6") can be considerably less expensive than Polyjet. SLA higher general heat deflection & are less susceptable to swelling when soaked in water.
Although more brittle if dropped, SLA’s have finer layer lines and are considerably less labor intensive when used as master patterns or finished for production or show quality paint. Large parts ordered in decent quantities can be less expensive as well .
Smoother surface, better leadtimes on large parts. Better sectioned parts with less natural warp caused by the process itself. SLA’s produce much better patterns and show parts.
Most SLA parts are shipped with a Standard finish level (the support material is removed and the "A" side layer lines are blasted smooth).
Premium finish includes layers removed on all surfaces (may include primer).
Painting; Primed, sanded and painted to match a color chip or specific Pantone color. May also be used as a mold ready pattern (primer finish).
Clear parts: A simple clear part has a light sanding and clear coat applied (least expensive but visible layer lines). Polished offers the most realistic clear parts but are priced higher.
Shielding; Parts can be sprayed with an EMI shield or static dissipative coating.
Available metal coatings; vacuum metallizing, painted chrome (with different tints available) & electroplating in nickle, polished or unpolished. Call if a custom metal "look is required".
