Stereolithography (SLA)
3D Printing
Stereolithography (SLA) is an advanced 3D printing technology that creates ultra-precise and durable parts for all applications. Engineers, designers, manufacturers, and more choose SLA 3D printing for its fine features, smooth surface finish, ultimate part precision & accuracy, and mechanical attributes like isotropy, water tightness, and material versatility.
Applications
Automotive & Transportation - Silicone Gaskets - Carbon Fiber Molds - Rapid Tooling - Replacement Parts/Pre Production ValidationAerospace - Drone Parts - Test Parts - JigsManufacturing & Industrial - Injection Molds - Molds for Blow Molding - Jigs & Fixtures - ESD Safe Parts - UL 94 Certified PartsHealthcare & BioMedical - Clinical & Usability Trials - Prototyping - Single-Use Instruments - End-Use Devices - Orthodontic ModelsConsumer Products - Highly Customizable End-Use Parts - Functional Prototypes - Thermoforming Molds - Silicone prototypesEducation & Research - Robotics - Research & Development
Overview
Why Choose SLA Printing?
SLA printing is known for producing parts with exceptional detail, fine features, and smooth surface finishes. It works by using a light source—typically a laser—to selectively cure liquid resin into hardened plastic, layer by layer. This precision makes SLA a go-to solution for applications where tight tolerances and a polished look are critical, especially for prototypes that will be painted, coated, or molded.
Capabilities & Post Processing/Finishing
Large Work Volume
Ultra large format printing for mass production & large parts.
High Quality
High resolution printing for ultra precise geometries & smooth surface finishes.
Dimensionally Accurate
Achieve a perfect fit with every part, every time.
Quick Turnaround
Rapid production to keep your business moving.
Post Processing
Further enhance the surface finish of your parts with various post processing options.
Finishing
Personalize & protect parts with various surface finishing options
General Purpose
General Purpose Resins are ideal for high-detail, visually striking prototypes and models that don’t require advanced mechanical properties. Designed for ease of use and precision, these resins offer smooth surface finishes and excellent feature resolution, making them perfect for concept models, cosmetic prototypes, and client presentations
Engineering
Engineering Resins enable the production of functional parts that can withstand mechanical stress, temperature, and repeated use. Formulated to simulate a wide range of industrial plastics, these resins offer exceptional strength, durability, and thermal resistance—making them ideal for prototyping, testing, and low-volume production. From snap fits and load-bearing components to jigs, fixtures, and end-use parts, Engineering Resins deliver reliable, high-performance results where it matters most.
Casting
Castable Resins are designed for clean burnout and high precision, making them ideal for investment casting in jewelry, dentistry, and engineering. They produce smooth surfaces and sharp details without ash or residue, enabling the creation of intricate, production-ready metal parts with confidence and consistency.
Medical
Medical Resins are biocompatible, high-precision materials designed for clinical use, medical manufacturing, and healthcare innovation. Validated for applications like surgical guides, splints, and patient-specific devices, these resins meet strict regulatory standards while delivering exceptional accuracy, durability, and safety.
Dental
Dental Resins are specialized, high-precision materials developed for digital dentistry workflows. Validated for a wide range of clinical applications—including crowns and bridges, surgical guides, splints, dentures, and clear aligner models—these resins offer outstanding accuracy, strength, and biocompatibility.
Materials
How Does SLA Printing Work?
Stereolithography (SLA) is one of the earliest and most refined 3D printing technologies, known for producing parts with exceptional detail, fine features, and smooth surface finishes. It works by using a light source—typically a laser—to selectively cure liquid resin into hardened plastic, layer by layer. This precision makes SLA a go-to solution for applications where tight tolerances and a polished look are critical, especially for prototypes that will be painted, coated, or molded.
Low Force Stereolithography™ (LFS) is Formlabs’ next-generation take on SLA. LFS enhances the traditional process by using a flexible resin tank and linear illumination to reduce peel forces during printing. This results in improved surface quality, higher accuracy, and more reliable printing of complex geometries. LFS also allows for the creation of watertight, functional parts with a wide range of material properties—ideal for both prototyping and end-use applications.
Whether you're developing concept models, production tools, or detailed final-use components, LFS technology brings advanced performance, speed, and repeatability to SLA printing.
