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We hope this FAQ will help you answer some of your questions,
but feel free to contact us if you have any more questions.
How
long will it take to get a prototype?
How do prices of SLA prototype parts are
determine?
What file do we accept?
What is an STL File?
How do I create a STL file?
What process is SLA most suited for?
What is the possible tolerances on SLA
parts?
SLA part supports - what are they, and
why are they required?
Do I need draft in my model?
What does SLA stand for?
How big is the RP industry?
How
long will it take to get a prototype?
Most parts are built within one or two days of receiving your file,
and usually arrive in your hands within 5 business days
How
do prices of SLA prototype parts are determine?
Price
are mainly determined by the and the overall dimension of the part.
Most minor modifications will not affect the price of the part.
What
file do we accept?
SLA machine
only read STL file. Ideally we like to receive STL file from you. However,
we do accept most 3D CAD file or even develop the 3D CAD file from your
2D data.
What
is an STL File?
An STL file is a neutral file format designed specifically for rapid
prototyping. The STL file allows any rapid prototyping system to use
data from any 3D CAD system. The STL represents your CAD data through
a mesh of triangular elements (facets) on the bounding surface of the
part. Most CAD system can generate STL files.
How
do I create a STL file?
Instructions
for creating STL file for various CAD system can be found HERE.
'What
process is SLA most suited for?
SLA is best for form/fit, marketing demonstration or pattern creation.
SLA parts are rarely used as functional parts.
What
are the tolerances on SLA parts?
Both of ours SLA
250 and 3500 are capable of creating parts with 0.02" tolerances.
Our SLA Viper si2 is capable of building parts with 0.002" tolerances.
SLA
part supports - what are they, and why are they required?
Since
the stereolithography process uses a liquid photopolymer, the prototype
has to be rigidly attached to the build platform. Additionally, any
features that form an overhang require a supporting structure to keep
them firmly in place. The supports are thin ribs (0.010") laid
out in a checkerboard pattern. These supports are created by the SLA
Machine, and they are removed from the prototype in the post processing
stage. Your CAD file do not need to include the supports.
Do
I need draft in my model?
No,
SLA can produce prototypes without draft in the CAD model.
What
does SLA stand for?
SLA stands
for StereoLithography Apparatus.
How
big is the RP industry?
Counting
hardware, materials, maintenance, consulting and service bureau work,
the RP industry is over one billion dollars annually.
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