Stereo-
lithography
Smooth surfaces, fine details, complex geometries – enabled by SLA
Stereolithography (SLA) is one of the most precise and longest-established 3D printing processes. It belongs to the group of additive manufacturing technologies and uses liquid photopolymer resins that are selectively cured by a laser beam. Layer by layer, this creates a three-dimensional component with an extremely fine surface finish and high level of detail accuracy.
Thanks to its high precision and material diversity, stereolithography has established itself as a preferred choice for prototyping, small-series production, and industrial applications. It is particularly used where delicate structures, smooth surfaces, or complex geometries are required.
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Efficiency
Combination of versatility and material diversity
For every industry
From automotive to dentistry
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Reach your goal quickly with our experts
Maximum data protection
Your data is in safe hands with us
35 years of experience
Resilient prototypes for your projects
Efficiency
Combination of versatility and material diversity
For every industry
From automotive to dentistry
Well advised
Reach your goal quickly with our experts
Why is SLA one of the most precise 3D printing techniques?
SLA stands out from other 3D printing technologies through its high accuracy and fine layer resolution. Compared to processes such as Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) or Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), SLA offers distinct advantages in detail.
Ultra-fine details
A print resolution down to 25 microns enables the accurate reproduction of even the most complex geometries and delicate features.
Smooth surfaces
Barely visible layer lines, minimal post-processing - perfect for parts that demand a premium look and flawless functionality.
High dimensional accuracy
Ideal for precise prototypes and functional parts - ensures prototypes can be tested realistically and used directly.
Wide range of material options
From transparent to flexible resins - allowing versatile applications, from design models to technical components.
Stereolithography in pictures
Photopolymer resins
Material diversity
Technical resins
- High strength and heat resistance
- Mechanical properties comparable to ABS or polypropylene
- Applications in the automotive and mechanical engineering industries
Transparent resins
- High optical clarity
- Use in light guides, optical prototypes or fluid channels
High temperature resistant resins
- Resistant to high temperatures (up to 280 °C)
- Ideal for thermal testing or molds for injection molding
FAQ - Stereolithography
- In which industries is stereolithography used?
Prototype construction and small series production
- Production of functional and design prototypes with high dimensional accuracy
- Development and testing of new product designs prior to series production
- Production of small quantities when injection molding or CNC machining are uneconomical
Medical technology
- Production of dental models, drilling templates and dental splints
- Production of individual hearing aids and implants
- Biocompatible SLA resins enable sterilizable and patient-specific components
Industrial applications (automotive, aviation, mechanical engineering)
- Production of precise components for wind tunnel tests and aerodynamic analyses
- Development of custom-fit fixtures, housings and assembly aids
- Production of spare parts for vintage cars or special machines
Electronics and microtechnology
- Production of housings and components for electronic parts
- Production of fine structures for printed circuit boards or sensor housings
- Use in research for microfluidic systems
Architecture and model making
- Production of detailed architectural models and city models
- Creation of true-to-scale presentation models for construction projects
- Use in industrial and machine model making for the visualization of concepts
- What are the disadvantages of the SLA process?
- Limited material durability
- Photopolymer resins can age over time under UV radiation and moisture
- Mechanical resilience lower than with SLS or FDM
- Suitable for visual and functional prototypes, but not for heavy-duty final components
- Post-processing required
- Removal of support structures and post-curing necessary
- Cleaning with isopropanol to remove excess resin
- Material costs higher than with FDM or SLS
- SLA resins are more expensive than conventional 3D printing materials such as PLA or ABS
Our case studies
Automotive
A body with class: We produced the master model for the body of the cult Evetta light electric vehicle on a 1:1 scale – with perfect milling and the finest surface finishing. Find out how.
Industry
The socket for the forest: We developed the prototypes for a type of powerbank for Stihl, which was put through its paces by forestry workers. A truly powerful project.
Aerospace
"Jena, we have no problem": Jena-Optronik commissioned MODELLTECHNIK to produce a 1:1 model of the Gateway Docking Port, which is needed for sensor tests in space applications.
Design
Timeless and dignified: Working with Samosa and our expertise in 3D printing, MODELLTECHNIK creates beautiful templates and design samples for individually designed funeral urns.
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