SLA Prototype

The first Stereolithography Appartus (SLA prototype) machine was made in 1988 by 3D Systems located in Valencia, CA.

To this day, 3D Systems is still a leader in the SLA prototype industry.

Using SLA prototype technology is one of the least expensive methods for creating your prototype. A 3-D CAD model (which can be created by a CAD designer) is transferred to the SLA prototype machine. The machine uses a laser to trace each layer of the model onto photopolymer resin. This photosensitive resin solidifies when it is exposed to ultraviolet light.

The model is built on a platform that is lowered in small increments to make subsequent layers until the prototype is complete. When finished, the prototype must be cured in an ultraviolet oven.

This is a basic overview of prototype stereolithography technology. For more information, please review our article on prototype stereolithography or rapid technology prototyping.