How is a first-class finish achieved for SLA parts?

As the first commercial 3D printing technology, Stereolithography (SLA) offers a cost-effective way to manufacture parts with high accuracy and smooth surface finish using various materials.

However, to achieve a truly high-quality finish on your SLA parts, you should consider a number of post-processing options. This is especially true for SLA prints, as they require support structures that can leave marks or grooves on the surface of your part when removed. In today's tutorial, we will learn about a range of post-processing options for SLA-printed parts as well as things to consider during the post-processing phase.

Clean Your SLA PrintAfter your SLA part is printed and removed from the build platform, it still contains some liquid resin on the surface that needs to be removed. To clean your part, you will need isopropyl alcohol (IPA) as well as a container large enough to immerse your print. Place your SLA print in the IPA and let it sit there for approximately 10-20 minutes before removing and letting it dry. Remove Support StructuresSupport structures are an essential part of the SLA printing process and help prevent deformation and warping. Since the supports are made from the same material as the final part, the support for SLA must be removed manually. The use of chemical baths (FDM) or other soluble support methods is not possible in this case. Fortunately, manually removing the supports is relatively simple. For example, they can be easily removed with pliers or by bending by hand. However, for small and delicate parts, it is recommended to remove them with a razor blade or X-Acto knife. Post-CuringWhile this is an optional step, post-curing your SLA part can significantly improve the mechanical properties, strength, and performance of your part by completing the polymerization process. The post-curing process works by exposing your part to UV light and heat. To do this, the part must be placed in a UV oven for approximately 10-20 minutes and rotated one or two times to ensure that all areas of the part have been exposed. Post-curing can also be achieved with natural sunlight.

With a variety of finishing options for SLA prints