SLA Resin Printing
The highest-resolution additive manufacturing process available — engineered for parts that demand precision.
What is SLA?
Stereolithography (SLA) is a photopolymerization process in which a UV laser selectively cures liquid resin layer by layer to build a three-dimensional object. First invented in 1984, SLA remains the gold standard for resolution and surface quality among all 3D printing technologies.
Unlike FDM (filament-based printing), SLA works by tracing a UV laser across the surface of a liquid resin vat. Each pass solidifies an ultra-thin layer — as fine as 25 microns — building up geometry with exceptional dimensional accuracy.
At Enclose, we operate industrial-grade SLA systems calibrated to ±0.05 mm tolerances, ensuring that every part we produce fits your assembly first time, every time.
How the Process Works
File Preparation
Your STL or STEP file is imported and automatically oriented for optimal support placement and surface quality. Our engineers review every file before printing begins.
Layer Slicing
The model is sliced into layers as thin as 25 µm. Each layer defines the exact cross-section the UV laser will cure, giving you control over resolution vs. print time.
UV Laser Curing
A high-precision UV laser traces each layer across the resin surface, solidifying the photopolymer where it hits. The build platform descends after each layer — building your part from the bottom up.
Post-Processing
After printing, parts are washed in IPA to remove uncured resin, then post-cured under UV flood lamps to reach full mechanical properties.
Quality Inspection
Each part is inspected dimensionally with digital calipers and visually for surface defects. Only parts that meet spec are shipped.
Technical Specifications
Layer Thickness
25 – 100 µm
Dimensional Tolerance
±0.05 mm
Minimum Feature Size
0.3 mm
Maximum Build Volume
350 × 350 × 400 mm
Surface Roughness (Ra)
~1–3 µm
Lead Time
48–72 hours
Available Materials
Standard Resin
General PurposeBalanced mechanical properties for concept models, housings, and display parts. Smooth surface finish with good detail reproduction.
Tough Resin
High ImpactSimulates ABS-like toughness. Ideal for functional prototypes, snap-fit assemblies, and parts under mechanical load.
Flexible Resin
Rubber-LikeShore A hardness from 50–80. Perfect for gaskets, grips, overmolding simulations, and wearable devices.
High-Temp Resin
Heat ResistantHeat deflection temperature up to 238 °C (HDT @ 0.45 MPa). For engine bay prototypes, oven inserts, and thermal testing jigs.
Transparent Resin
Optical-GradeNear-glass clarity after post-processing. For lenses, light pipes, fluid visualization, and aesthetic covers.
Castable Resin
Metal CastingBurns out cleanly at 100% for investment casting. Zero ash residue — ideal for metal casting masters and jewellery.
Common Applications
- Functional prototypes for design validation
- Pre-production enclosures and housings
- Medical device components and surgical guides
- Jewellery and luxury product masters
- Aerospace and automotive interior components
- Consumer electronics casing prototypes
- Dental models and orthodontic devices
- Optical and lighting components
Design Guidelines
Wall Thickness
Minimum 0.8 mm for structural walls; 0.4 mm for decorative features.
Overhangs
Overhangs beyond 45° require support. We optimize support placement to minimize post-processing marks.
Holes & Pins
Minimum hole diameter: 0.5 mm. Pins thinner than 0.8 mm may be fragile depending on resin.
Fit Tolerances
Allow 0.1–0.2 mm clearance for press fits; 0.3–0.5 mm for sliding fits.
File Format
STL or STEP. Ensure the model is watertight (manifold). Scale in mm.
Surface Finish
Layer lines are visible at standard resolution. Sanding, priming, and painting available on request.
Ready to print?
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