Photopolymer Resin
Compared with other 3D printing processes, resin printers are used to deliver parts with unparalleled detail and dimensional accuracy. The process can also be used with a wide range of materials from high strength engineering polymers to biocompatible resins for use in dental and medical applications.
About the Technology
Photopolymer Resin printing first appeared in the early 1980s in the form of stereolythography, when Japanese researcher Dr. Hideo Kodama invented the modern layered approach to stereolithography, using ultraviolet light to cure photosensitive polymers. This additive manufacturing process works by focusing an ultraviolet (UV) light on to a vat of photopolymer resin. With the help of computer aided manufacturing or computer-aided design (CAM/CAD) software, the UV light is used to draw a pre-programmed design or shape on to the surface of the photopolymer vat. Photopolymers are sensitive to ultraviolet light, so the resin is photochemically solidified and forms a single layer of the desired 3D object. Then, the build platform lowers one layer and a blade recoats the top of the tank with resin. This process is repeated for each layer of the design until the 3D object is complete. Completed parts must be washed with a solvent to clean wet resin from their surfaces then undergo a final cure in a UV oven to help solidify the parts.
About the Materials
At West Texas 3D we have access to a wide range of both general purpose and engineering grade materials for the photopolymer printers. We primarily focus on the materials listed below but are willing to look into others upon request.
Formlabs White v4
White Resin is our most affordable option for resin printing. It is perfect for general-purpose prototyping and design, and models with intricate details. With a matte surface finish, opaque appearance, and precise details, prints are ready to use right off the printer. Its neutral undertone makes a great base for parts that will eventually be painted or undergo other finishing processes.
Formlabs Tough 1500
Tough 1500 Resin is a resilient, skin-safe material that offers similar strength and stiffness to polypropylene (PP). It is ideal for stiff and pliable parts that bend and spring back quickly, prototypes that repeatedly bend and quickly return to shape, and jigs and fixtures requiring repeated deflection. Tough 1500 Resin is certified safe for skin contact, also making it an ideal material for wearables, personal protective equipment, and other consumer goods. For parts to be certified safe for skin contact, the recommended Tough 1500 Resin post-processing conditions must be followed without deviation.
Formlabs Durable
Durable Resin is a pliable, impact-resistant, and lubricious material for squeezable parts and low-friction assemblies. Parts printed in Durable Resin are robust and have low friction, with similar strength and stiffness to polyethylene (PE) and a coefficient of friction is comparable to Delrin® (POM). It is ideal for squeezable prototypes, low-friction assemblies, and jigs and fixtures undergoing significant impacts.
Microscopic comparison SLA vs FFF
