Quick Design Reference for Stereolithography

SLA

Stereolithography

Description

Stereolithography (SLA) 3D printing utilizes light-curable thermoset resins to build highly accurate, high-resolution parts. Its surface finish is one of the highest standards in the industry and recommended for aesthetic prototypes.

Maximum Part Size

736 × 635 × 533 mm

Minimum Part Size

3 × 2 × 1 mm

General Tolerance

0.2%

Minimum Feature Size

0.51 mm

Minimal wall thickness (Supported)

0.4 mm

Minimal wall thickness (Unsupported)

0.6 mm

Maximum Wall Thickness

7 mm

Minimum Gap Between Walls

0.50 mm

Minimum Hole Diameter at 1mm Thickness

0.75 mm

Minimum Shaft Diameter at 1mm Height

0.5 mm

Minimum Embossed Text Height

0.3 mm

Minimum Debossed Text Depth

0.5 mm

Minimum Font Size (Character Height)

1 mm

Requires Support Structures

Yes

Horizontal Bridges, Maximum Unsupported Length

20 mm

Maximum Unsupported Overhang Size

1 mm

Unsupported Angle from Vertical

19°

Minimum Clearance for Moving Parts

0.5 mm

Standard Layer Thickness

0.1 mm

Infill Options

Solid

Advantages

Produces smooth, glass-like surfaces ideal for aesthetic prototypes.
Complex part geometries can be achieved
Excellent detail and high-resolution prints
Suitable for both small and large parts due to high resolution and relatively large build envelopes.

Disadvantages

Higher cost compared to processes like MJF, SLS, or FDM.
High UV sensitivity that may lead to material degradation and fast aging
Not suitable for moving assemblies
Need of support structures for overhanging features
Thin or detailed features may be fragile for end use applications
Low production volumes, suitable mainly for prototyping and exhibition parts due to slower batch processing.