RAPID PROTOTYPING SOLUTIONS » STEREOLITHOGRAPHY (SLA) » Additional SLA Info

Tolerances

SLA standard tolerances are +/-.007” for the first inch and +/-.003” for every inch thereafter.

Machining SLA Patterns
Our SLA parts can be machined to allow for continued testing and work-arounds when problems and interferences are discovered in the testing process. We can also heat to enable part assembly where necessary.

Feature Guidelines
Features as fine as .004" can be replicated utilizing the SLA process. When possible, .010" is preferred to ensure the fidelity of final patterns. Wall thicknesses as fine as .020" can be replicated, although we recommend .040" thickness for best results.We pay special attention to optimal part orientation for each SLA pattern build, ensuring the greatest accuracy and final build quality for each part.

Shrinkage
The resins utilized in our SLA process are “zero-tolerance”, meaning there is virtually no shrinkage of SLA patterns and parts. Unless a pattern is to be used as a master mold for a cast metal part, shrinkage SHOULD NOT be incorporated into the building specifications. Parts are generated on a 1:1 scale. All files should also be delivered 1:1.In cases where SLA will be used for creating cast metal parts, a shrinkage factor of +1% per inch will be built into the pattern.

Generating Large Parts
Patterns exceeding maximum SLA machine dimensions are created using an ultraviolet welding process. Pattern data is split to the appropriate size using specialized Maestro® software and each portion is then individually generated via the SLA process. Upon completion, the split patterns are then welded together using a high-intensity ultraviolet laser. This process allows for the creation of large parts without loss of strength, durability, quality, or performance.