Large-Format SLA and New Resin Options

Jan 2, 2024

We’re excited to announce an upgrade in our 3D printing capabilities! Our maximum build volume for SLA (Stereolithography) 3D prints has increased to 298x164x300 mm (11.7x6.5x11.8 inches), and we're also introducing new materials.

For the past five years, high-resolution SLA models were confined to the smaller build volume of our Formlabs Form 3 machines. These machines were restricted to proprietary resins, limiting our material options. In late 2023, we expanded our capacity with a fleet of large-format machines. Following months of rigorous testing and calibration, we are thrilled to officially launch this new service.

For those unfamiliar with SLA, it’s a process known for its high resolution. SLA utilizes UV-cured resins, differing fundamentally from FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling). SLA's primary advantage is its ability to produce models with exceptional smoothness and detail. However, UV resins are susceptible to degradation from prolonged UV exposure (sunlight), making these models more suitable for indoor use or prototyping.

We now offer the following SLA materials:

Standard: Ideal for prototypes and design validation.
ABS-like: Offers enhanced strength and moderate flexibility.
Tough: Provides superior strength and flexibility, perfect for parts requiring significant bendability before breaking.

Additionally, we continue to provide Formlabs' RIGID resin (limited to 145 × 145 × 193 mm or 5.7 × 5.7 × 7.6 inches), which is exceptionally stiff and suited for applications where flexibility is undesirable.

If you need specific SLA resins not currently in our catalog, please reach out to us. Similar to our approach with FDM machine filaments, we are open to sourcing and using any particular resin that meets your project's needs.