Stereolithography (SLA)

Rapid 3D Prototyping

3D Printing

STL Files

Definitions

Gallery

3D Printing

The Z Corp 3D printer, z-510, prints in full 600 x 450 dpi resolution. Industires commonly utilizing this technology include automotive, architecture, consumer products, electronics, packaging, etc. The elastometric material is great for toys, figurines, sports balls, paintball masks, and the list goes on. 3D prinitng is great for parts when color and/or speed is critical. The only drawback is that surface finish, accuracy, and overall strengthen are not quite as reliable as SLA.

How 3D Printing Works

The Z Corp Z-510 has two elevator style platforms inside the main build chamber. One platform is empty and raised to the level of the table. This is the build platform. The second platform is lowered all the way and the vat is filled with the build substrate, or powder. As each layer is added, the build platform is a binding solution and the color of the cross section onto the powder. Once the build proecss is complete, the part can be pulled from the bed of powder, it goes into the post curing apparatus. In here, any excess powder will be vacuumed from the part. Once clean, the part is dipped into the final bonding solution, which permeates the part and hardens it throughout. This increases the color, strength, and gives it a surface finish to complete the part.