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ResourcesDesign GuidesDesign Guide: Stereolithography (SLA) 3D Printing

Design Guide: Stereolithography (SLA) 3D Printing

SLA 3D printing is a highly-versatile platform for making custom parts in prototype and production settings; often acting as a stand-in for injection molded plastic parts. Learn how you can apply SLA to your next project with our free guide.

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Xometry SLA 3D Printing Design Guide cover

Explore Stereolithography (SLA) – an additive manufacturing process using UV light to solidify liquid resin. Learn about different SLA types (laser-based, mSLA, DLP) and its benefits: high detail, smooth finishes, and precision. Discover Xometry's SLA standards, tolerances, and design guidelines. Review available SLA materials and finishes.

An Inside Look at the Table of Contents

Introduction

  • What is Stereolithography?
  • Different Types of SLA
  • SLA Manufacturing Standards
  • General Manufacturing Standards
  • Tolerances and Resolution

Design Guidelines

  • Wall Thickness
  • Holes & Gaps
  • Wire Features
  • Overhangs & Bridges
  • Engravings & Embossing
  • Fillets & Drafts

Materials

  • General Purpose
  • Durable
  • Clear
  • Highly Stiff
  • Specialty

Finishes

  • Matte & Natural
  • Strip & Ship
  • Quick Clear

Additional Resources

  • Material Comparison Charts
  • Xometry Resources

About Xometry

Stereolithography (SLA) is a powerful 3D printing technology that produces extremely accurate and high-resolution parts that are capable of being used directly in end-use, low-volume production, or for rapid prototyping.  Stereolithography 3D printing is a highly versatile platform for making custom parts in prototype and production settings, often acting as a stand-in for injection-molded plastic parts.

Xometry offers both standard and high-resolution options for fine detail parts, and can also print larger-sized parts and products, offering up to a 29-inch build area. In addition, Xometry's manufacturing partner network allows us to offer a larger variety of materials than other 3D printing companies - we offer a wide range of Accura-, Somos-, and Formlabs-branded materials.

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Team Xometry
This article was written by various Xometry contributors. Xometry is a leading resource on manufacturing with CNC machining, sheet metal fabrication, 3D printing, injection molding, urethane casting, and more.

Read more articles by Team Xometry

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