When fit and finish matter most, SLA is hard to beat. Stereolithography is the 3D printing process of choice for fine detail and smooth surfaces.
How SLA works
A UV laser cures liquid photopolymer resin one layer at a time. The result is high resolution and surfaces so smooth they often need little finishing — ideal for visual prototypes and master patterns.
Strengths and trade-offs
- Excellent detail and surface quality.
- Great for precise fits and presentation models.
- Standard resins can be more brittle than nylon — though tough and specialty resins extend the range.
If durability matters more than detail, compare with SLS and FDM in FDM vs SLS vs SLA. And remember that material choice drives the final result as much as the process.
Choose SLA when the look, feel and precision of the part are what count.
Related reading
Services: 3D Printing
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