Getting Started with 3D Printing

Chapter 5. Understanding SLA Printers

The previous chapter discussed FDM printers, which represent about 90% of the consumer market. The other 10% belongs to a special class of printers called SLA printers. SLA is an acronym for “stereolithographic apparatus,” which basically means “gizmo that writes with light.” These 3D printers create very detailed prints, but are more difficult to use, so it is important to know their benefits and drawbacks before you buy your first liter of resin.

How It Works

These 3D printers do not use filament; instead, they use a liquid resin (polymer) that hardens or “cures” when exposed to ultraviolet light. The 3D prints from resin printers are still made layer by layer, but are created in a slightly different ...