Compared The SLA and SLS Rapid Prototype Services
SLA and SLS rapid prototype are the two main 3D printing manufacturing processes now. Rapid prototyping gives our esteemed customers a good idea of the look and feel of a product or part. It is before committing to the more costly aspect of production. Creatingway offers advanced SLA and SLS rapid prototyping manufacturing services. We pride ourselves in producing rapid prototype parts with the same design, or several variations or duplicates of the same part. The rapid prototypes made do emphasize strength, durability, aesthetics, and moving parts. It helps in shortening the cycle of production. The article tries to explain the two standard rapid prototyping services we offer.
What’s the SLA Printing Manufacturing?
SLA (Stereolithography):
This service produces components using a precise UV laser to cure and solidify photo-reactive resin in thin layers. It is ideal for concept models, rapid prototypes, master patterns, snap-fit assemblies, and investment casting patterns. It is noted to be the most accurate 3D printing technology ever discovered to date. The parts made by SLA are clear, with the possibility of multiple finishes depending on the customer’s specifications. The finishes include painting, plating, and threaded insert installation.
Build volume: 450×450×350mm; For oversized parts, a solution exists where we expertly section and bond the parts using proprietary internal mechanical interlocking features.
Precision tolerances: ±0.1mm.
Build layer thickness: the standard resolution constructs made have a thickness of 0.005″-0.006″. For high-resolution constructs, we come closer to 0.002″-0.004″.
Lead time: most SLA projects are ready to ship out in 3-5 business days, but we can achieve a shorter time if necessary.
SLA materials: Accura ABS resin
What’s the advantage of SLA printing?
- Fast implementation of prototypes in initial stages of product development,
- Cost-effective production
- Customized coloring
- Multi-part assembly is possible
- Low material consumption
Limitations
- Components may be brittle, depending on the material used
- Support structures can limit design freedom
Finishing options
Of note is our ability to perform multiple finishes on the prototypes specified by customers. We perform:
- Removal of supports
- Priming
- Painting
- Glossing
- Addition of clear coats
- Smoothened finishes (sand to 220 grit)
Ideal uses of SLA
- Show and concept models
- Casting patterns
- Medical models
- Fit and form testing
- Small complex end-use parts
What’s the SLS Printing Manufacturing?
SLS (Selective Laser Sintering)
This service creates sturdy and geometrically accurate components using a high-powered CO2 laser that fuses powdered thermoplastics. A computer controls the laser to achieve high accuracy. During the process, powder encases it, creating a built-in support structure. It allows the crafting of intricate geometrics easily using SLS and removes the need for specific support structures. Production parts from SLS are durable, water and airtight, and heat resistant. It makes SLS-made parts an excellent option for applications requiring high heat or chemically resistant material. It is ideal for functional testing, rapid prototyping, and additively manufactured parts.
Build volume: 330×280×420mm
Precision tolerance: ±0.1mm
Build layer thickness: We typically make SLS parts using a standard layer thickness of 0.004″-0.005″.
Lead time: Most SLS projects are ready to ship out in 3-5 business days, but we can achieve a shorter time if necessary.
SLS materials: Nylon 12 FR, Nylon 11 EX, TPU-70A thermoplastic urethane powder, Nylon 12 CF, Flex TPE, others as requested.
What’s the advantage of SLS printing?
- No need for support structures
- Fast production time
- Excellent layer adhesion
- Ideal for dyeing
Limitations
- Prone to shrinkage and warping
- Produces much waste
- Costly in production
Finishing options
Of note is our ability to perform multiple finishes on the prototypes specified by customers. We perform:
- Painting
- Bead blasting
- Cyanoacrylate dip (water/airtight)
Ideal uses of SLS
- High volume customized functional parts
- Prototypes requiring high heat resistance
- Low volume rugged production parts
- Under the hood automotive components
- Living hinges and functional enclosures
Creatingway is ready and committed to ensuring you get the best prototyping services possible. With a more comprehensive understanding of this field, we are ready to answer any tough question presented to us. Make the right choice and make a quote now.
Creatingway is concentrating on CNC machining manufacturing, prototype machining, low-volume manufacturing, metal fabrication, and parts finishing services, provide you the best support and services. ask us one inquire now.
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