Stereolithography

Stereolithography (SL) models are produced in a transparent epoxy resin from supplied 3D CAD data.

The process involves the curing of photo-reactive, epoxy resin with an ultraviolet laser, layer by layer. Models are built to an accuracy of +/- 0.2mm in layers of either 0.1mm or 0.15mm thicknesses. Models can be built up to 500mm x 500mm x 500mm in one piece and larger parts can be built in sections and bonded together.

Our standard 9110 epoxy resin allows the functionality for clip features etc but is also robust enough for fitting and evaluation, whilst our latest WATERSHED XC resin offers good mechanical properties and excellent clarity. When polished this material is ideal for lens evaluation models or for fluid flow analysis etc.

Typically SL models are produced as master patterns for silicone tooling and vacuum castings, but models can be supplied in a raw state with blasted finish or can be sanded or painted to match specific colour and surface finish requirements or lacquered to provide a transparent model.