At present,SLAtechnology produces good quality prototype surface and high dimensional accuracy; therefore it is the most widely used rapid prototyping technology. Advantages and disadvantages of SLA technology are below:

Advantages:

1. High degree of automation: it is completely automatic during the whole process.

2. High dimensional accuracy: ± 0.1mm.

3. Excellent surface quality: the upper surface can be a glass-like effect.

4. The complex structure of prototype and fine size: in particular, the internal structure.

5. Prototype uses as the disappearance for the investment precision casting.

6. To some extent, prototypes can be the substitution of plastic ones.

Disadvantages:

1. Physical and chemical changes accompanied during the forming process; parts easy to bend, needs to be support, otherwise it will be deformed.

2. Resin lithograph performance is not as good as plastic, brittle, and easy to break;

3. Equipment operation and maintenance costs are high: liquid resin materials and laser are expensive, and needed regular adjustment;

4. Less types of materials can be used: photosensitive liquid resin.

5. Liquid resin has a certain smell and toxicity, and need to protect from light; the application has limitations;

6. Prototype needs for secondary lithographing to complete.

Above knowledge are provided by the professional rapid prototyping company, NextProto. If you want to know more about rapid prototyping technology, please visit www.nextproto.com.