Stereolithography (SLA) 3D Printing for High-Precision Parts and Prototypes

SLA 3D Printer
Technology Overview

Ultra-High Resolution Precision

SLA provides unmatched detail resolution and surface quality for applications demanding precision. From intricate prototypes to transparent optical components, SLA delivers glass-like finishes and dimensional accuracy. Its fine detail and smooth surfaces make it ideal for masters, casting patterns and visual prototypes that require a premium finish.

Why manufacture with SLA

Advanced manufacturing capabilities enable complex geometries, functional prototypes, and end-use production parts that would be impossible or cost-prohibitive with traditional manufacturing methods. From functional prototypes to end-use production parts, this technology delivers exceptional performance across demanding industries.

Build volume
1500 x 750 x 550 mm
Tolerance
±0.25% (min ±0.25 mm)
Layer height
0.025 - 0.150 mm

High Detail Resolution · Smooth Finish

Stereolithography technology example showing SLA 3D printing capabilities and quality

Precision Prototyping

High-Detail Precision Prototypes

Essential for product development teams requiring exceptional surface finish and dimensional accuracy, SLA excels in detailed concept models, master patterns, and functional prototypes. The photopolymer curing process delivers smooth surfaces with minimal layer lines, making it ideal for visual prototypes, casting patterns, and intricate architectural models. With sub-millimeter precision and excellent feature resolution, SLA bridges the gap between initial design concepts and production-ready parts.

Production applications

Precision Design Validation

Design teams leverage SLA for rapid iteration cycles, with parts ready for testing within 24 hours of design completion. The liquid photopolymer process enables wall thicknesses as thin as 0.6mm and feature details down to 0.1mm, perfect for capturing intricate textures, fine text, and complex internal structures. Post-processing techniques like sanding, painting, and metal plating transform prototypes into presentation-ready models indistinguishable from final products.

Key advantages

Complex geometries: Intricate internal channels, overhangs, and assemblies impossible with traditional manufacturing.

Functional prototypes: Test mechanical properties and fit before investing in production tooling.

Custom tooling: Jigs, fixtures, and manufacturing aids tailored to specific production requirements.

End-use parts: Production components for aerospace, medical, automotive, and industrial applications.

SLA automotive components
SLA medical devices
SLA aerospace components
SLA complex geometries
Material Library

High Detail SLA Resins

Precision SLA resins deliver exceptional detail resolution and smooth surface finishes. Our curated selection includes standard, tough, flexible, transparent, and biocompatible formulations for diverse prototyping and manufacturing applications.

  • Accura 25 Part
    Primary Material

    Accura 25

    Accura 25 is a high-performance stereolithography resin that combines the precision of industrial SLA with ABS-like mechanical properties.

    Tensile Strength
    38 MPa
    Flexural Modulus
    1380–1660 MPa
    Temp Resistance
    58–63 °C
    Material details

    Unlike desktop SLA resins, Accura 25 delivers exceptional dimensional accuracy, smooth surface finish, and reliable mechanical performance across large build volumes up to 1500 × 750 × 550 mm.

    Industrial-Grade SLA Resin with Polypropylene-Like Properties

    Applications

    Master Patterns & Tooling/Functional Prototypes/Film & Entertainment Props/Automotive Prototyping

  • Accura ClearVue Part
    Transparent

    Accura ClearVue

    Accura ClearVue is a versatile and transparent material known for its high clarity and glass-like appearance.

    Tensile Strength
    46–53 MPa
    Flexural Modulus
    1980–2310 MPa
    Temp Resistance
    51 °C
    Material details

    Accura ClearVue is favored for its aesthetic qualities, especially in applications requiring visual transparency.

    Versatile Transparent Material with Glass-Like Clarity

    Compliance

    USP Class VI

    Applications

    Clear Prototypes/Architectural Models/Medical Models/Consumer Products

  • Accura Xtreme White 200 Part
    High Impact

    Accura Xtreme White 200

    Accura Xtreme White 200 is a high-performance stereolithography photopolymer designed to replace CNC-machined polypropylene and ABS parts.

    Tensile Strength
    45–50 MPa
    Flexural Modulus
    2,350–2,550 MPa
    Temp Resistance
    47 °C
    Material details

    This ultra-tough white material offers exceptional impact resistance, durability, and mechanical properties that make it ideal for functional prototypes, snap-fit assemblies, and demanding applications.

    Ultra-Tough White Photopolymer for Functional Assemblies

    Applications

    Gaming & Consumer Electronics/Automotive Interior Components/Functional Prototypes/Snap-Fit Assemblies

  • High Temperature Resin Part
    High Temperature

    High Temperature Resin

    High Temperature Resin is one of the most heat-resistant stereolithography materials and the most heat-resistant Formlabs resin, with a heat deflection temperature of 238 °C at 0.

    Tensile Strength
    58 MPa
    Flexural Modulus
    2600 MPa
    Temp Resistance
    120 °C
    Material details

    45 MPa after thermal post-cure.

    Formlabs' Most Heat-Resistant Resin for Hot Air, Fluids and Tooling

    Compliance

    RoHS Directives 2011/65/EU and (EU) 2015/863/REACH SVHC (EC 1907/2006)/TSCA Active Inventory

    Applications

    Automotive Heat Management/Aerospace Thermal Components/Manufacturing Tooling/Industrial Equipment

  • Tough 1500 Resin Part
    Polypropylene-Like

    Tough 1500 Resin

    Tough 1500 Resin is the polypropylene-like resin in the Formlabs Tough family: stiff enough to hold its shape, yet compliant enough to bend under load and spring back.

    Tensile Strength
    34 MPa
    Flexural Modulus
    1370 MPa
    Temp Resistance
    66 °C
    Material details

    It stretches to 155% before breaking and takes drops and impacts that shatter rigid resins, so snap fits, clips, hinges, latches, rugged enclosures and jigs keep working through repeated flexing.

    Polypropylene-Like SLA Resin for Parts That Flex and Spring Back

    Compliance

    ISO 10993-5 (Cytotoxicity)/ISO 10993-10 (Irritation)/ISO 10993-10 (Sensitization)

    Applications

    Snap Fits & Compliant Mechanisms/Rugged Enclosures/Polypropylene Prototypes/Jigs & Fixtures

  • Tough 2000 Resin Part
    ABS-Like

    Tough 2000 Resin

    Tough 2000 Resin is the ABS-like resin in the Formlabs Tough family: a stiff, strong photopolymer that behaves like a moulded ABS part.

    Tensile Strength
    40.4 MPa
    Flexural Modulus
    1701 MPa
    Temp Resistance
    70 °C
    Material details

    It matches ABS sheet stiffness, is stronger in tension and stretches to 79% before breaking, so parts hold their shape under load and take impacts that crack standard resins.

    ABS-Like Resin for Stiff, Strong Functional Parts

    Compliance

    UL 94 flammability/RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU/REACH SVHC (EC 1907/2006)

    Applications

    Rugged Housings & Enclosures/Jigs & Fixtures/Brackets & Mounts/Functional Prototypes

  • ESD Resin Part
    Static Dissipative

    ESD Resin

    ESD Resin is a static-dissipative Formlabs SLA photopolymer for custom tools, jigs, fixtures and trays that protect sensitive electronics on the production line.

    Tensile Strength
    44.2 MPa
    Flexural Modulus
    1841 MPa
    Temp Resistance
    62.2 °C
    Material details

    Post-cured parts have a surface resistivity of 10⁵ to 10⁸ Ω/sq, so charge drains away in a controlled way instead of discharging into components, and grounded parts do not attract dust or powder.

    Static-Dissipative SLA Resin for Electronics Manufacturing

    Compliance

    RoHS Directives 2011/65/EU and (EU) 2015/863/REACH SVHC (EC 1907/2006)

    Applications

    Electronics Manufacturing Tooling/Component Handling & Storage/Housings for Sensitive Electronics/Aerospace Production Parts

  • Flame Retardant Resin Part
    Flame Retardant

    Flame Retardant Resin

    Flame Retardant Resin is a self-extinguishing, halogen-free stereolithography material for parts that sit near heat, electricity or ignition sources.

    Tensile Strength
    38 MPa
    Flexural Modulus
    2700 MPa
    Temp Resistance
    94 °C
    Material details

    It is rated UL 94 V-0 at 3 mm on a UL Blue Card and passes the FAR 25.

    Self-Extinguishing UL 94 V-0 Resin for Enclosures and Interiors

    Compliance

    UL 94 flammability/IEC 60695-11-10 flammability/14 CFR 25.853 (FAR 25.853) Appendix F, Part I

    Applications

    Electronics Enclosures/Aircraft & Rail Interiors/Automotive & EV Parts/Medical Electronics

  • USP Class VI Biocompatible ClearVue Part
    Biocompatible

    USP Class VI Biocompatible ClearVue

    USP Class VI Biocompatible ClearVue is our premium medical-grade transparent material that maintains all the excellent optical properties of standard ClearVue while meeting the stringent requirements for medical device manufacturing.

    Tensile Strength
    46–53 MPa
    Flexural Modulus
    1980–2310 MPa
    Temp Resistance
    51 °C
    Material details

    This material follows specialized handling protocols, enhanced cleaning procedures, and comprehensive material traceability to ensure biocompatibility compliance.

    Medical-Grade Transparent Material with Enhanced Biocompatibility

    Compliance

    USP Class VI

    Applications

    Medical Device Prototypes/Pharmaceutical Equipment/Biomedical Research/Clinical Testing Devices

Post-Processing

Material Surface Finishes

SLA delivers the smoothest surface of any 3D printing process. Every part is washed, post-cured and has its supports removed, leaving a smooth, finely detailed surface that is ready to use straight away or to paint.

Standard Finish SLA Finish
Natural

Standard Finish

Parts are washed, post-cured and have their supports removed, leaving the smooth, finely detailed surface SLA is known for. Sharp edges, small text and fine features hold their shape, and the surface is ready for fit checks, assembly and presentation, or as a base for paint.

Finish attributes

Surface TextureSmooth, fine-detailed surface
AppearanceNatural resin colour
DetailsSharp & crisp
Dyed Black
Natural
Dyed Finish

Deep Color Dye

Select SLA resins, including Accura 25, can be dyed black after post-curing. The dye penetrates the surface for an even, deep colour that will not chip like paint, while keeping the smooth surface and fine detail of the standard finish.

Finish attributes

Surface TextureSmooth, fine-detailed surface
AppearanceEven, deep black
DetailsSharp & crisp
Performance Paint
Standard Finish
Premium Finish

Performance Paint

Painting offers a highly durable, automotive-grade coating that enhances the aesthetics and durability of 3D-printed parts. Each part is hand-finished to ensure smooth surfaces and a premium quality appearance. Using professional-grade coating equipment, this process allows for precise application and exceptional adhesion. Custom color matching is available, making it ideal for applications that require specific branding or visual impact.

Finish attributes

Surface TextureMatte to Semi-Gloss
AppearanceCustom color matching
DetailsClear & refined
Value-Added Services

SLA Finishing Services

SLA parts are often visual and functional validation assets. Services are tuned for detail retention and presentation quality.

Orientation and support strategy icon

Orientation and support strategy

Minimize witness marks while protecting critical cosmetic surfaces.

Cure and stability control icon

Cure and stability control

Post-cure settings matched to resin family and dimensional requirements.

Optical and clear-part finishing icon

Optical and clear-part finishing

Wet-sanding and polish workflows for transparent components.

Design Guidelines

SLA Design Guidelines

Our design guidelines for Stereolithography (SLA) include important information to improve part quality, minimize costs, and reduce overall manufacturing time. This section is a quick primer before full DFM review.

Maximum Build Volume

Maximum Build Volume

1500mm x 750mm x 550mm (59" x 30" x 22")

SLA offers the largest build volume in our facility, capable of producing parts up to 59 inches long in a single build.

General Tolerances

General Tolerances

Standard parts: ±0.25% (min ±0.25 mm), Large parts: ±0.4% (min ±0.5 mm)

Standard parts (10" x 10" x 10" or smaller): ±0.

Minimum Wall Thickness

Minimum Wall Thickness

0.8mm (0.031")

Supported walls are connected to two or more sides and are thick enough to support the model.

Layer Height

Layer Height

50 or 100 microns

Parts are printed at the standard 100 micron layer thickness (HD) unless our high definition (XHD) option is chosen, at 50 microns.

Stereolithography advantages
Technology Advantages

Why teams choose SLA

Stereolithography offers unique advantages for modern manufacturing applications, delivering exceptional performance and versatility for both prototyping and production requirements. Key benefits include cost-effective manufacturing, superior material properties, and the ability to produce complex geometries that would be impossible or expensive with traditional manufacturing methods.

01Highest Detail
Unmatched resolution and surface quality for precision applications
02Smooth Finish
Glass-like surface finish requiring minimal post-processing
03Material Variety
Wide range of material properties from flexible to rigid, clear to opaque
04Precision Accuracy
Exceptional dimensional accuracy for tight-tolerance applications
Instant Quote Tool

From Upload to Delivery

Upload files, configure manufacturing specs, and track production in one workflow built for engineering teams.

File upload interface
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Step 01

Upload CAD Files

Automated file checks before production

Drop your CAD files and receive immediate manufacturability feedback. Critical geometry and wall checks run as soon as files are uploaded.

  • Upload STEP, STL, OBJ, and production drawing files
  • Auto-detection for thin walls and trapped volumes
  • Instant design feedback before checkout
Industry Applications

SLA Applications Across Industries

Stereolithography (SLA) is the go-to when surface finish and dimensional accuracy matter as much as speed. Teams use SLA for paint-ready appearance models, tight-tolerance assemblies, and clear or transparent parts used for fit checks, optics, and flow visualization.

SLA excels when you need crisp features, smooth surfaces, and repeatable tolerances before committing to tooling or higher-volume production. It is commonly selected for presentation models, validation builds, and low-volume components where visual quality is part of the requirement.

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  • Instant pricing with automated manufacturability analysis
  • Production workflows built for repeatable quality
  • Engineering support from prototype to production
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STEP, STL, OBJ, 3MF and IGES supported

Manufacturing technologies
6
Engineering materials
50+
Part quantities
1-500+
Frequently Asked Questions

SLA Questions & Answers

Common questions about SLA 3D printing technology. Can't find what you're looking for? Reach out to our technical team.