What is Digital Light Processing (DLP)?
DLP Digital Light Processing rapid prototyping services is a form of stereolithography that is used in rapid prototyping services. The main difference between DLP and SLA rapid prototyping is the use of a projector light rather than a laser to cure photo-sensitive polymer resin. A DLP 3D printer projects the image of the object’s cross section onto the surface of the resin. The exposed resin hardens while the machine’s build platform descends, setting the stage for a new layer of fresh resin to be coated to the object and cured by light. Once a complete object is formed, additional post processing may be required such as removal of support material, chemical bath, and UV curing (upon request).
Digital Light Processing rapid prototyping services will produce parts with resolutions under 30 microns; the equivalent to other stereolithography machines. Ultimately, production time does depend on the size of the model. Compared to FDM, DLP 3D printing provides higher resolution and smoother surfaces.
DLP prototyping equipment utilizes a standard office digital projector as its main light source. These projectors can be purchased at various retail stores and are included in many do it yourself DLP kits.
What type of objects are best for Stereolithography printing services?
DLP 3D printing uses photosensitive resin plastic best fit for prototypes, patterns for injection molding, and metal casting applications. Digital light processing parts offer normal strength properties and can be machined or customized. Some of the biggest parts 3D printed using DLP prototyping measure close to 2m in length. We provide a network of DLP 3D printing services capable of producing both large and small SLA parts.
Are there any disadvantages to DLP prototyping?
Digital Light Processing prototyping services are more expensive due to the average cost of photo-sensitive resin ranging from $80 to over $200. However when comparing resolution and part quality, you’ll understand why it surpasses FDM prototyping services. Since there is only one particular resin being used at any one time during a 3D print process, supports do have to be removed by hand once the object is complete. Some photopolymer resins can be brittle depending on the object’s design but new improved resins are on their way to change this.
Unlike FDM, there is no dissolvable support structure that can be created separately from the model. Overall, industrial Digital Light processing prototyping equipment is also fairly expensive. Thanks to the rise of the “maker” movement, consumer level DLP 3D printing is beginning to take shape. Companies such as B9 Creator and MiiCraft are setting the stage for desktop sized DLP 3D printing. In due time, digital light processing 3D prototyping services will be just as affordable as FDM 3D printing services.
Our DLP Prototyping Services
Our company maintains an exclusive suite of professional rapid prototyping services to suit any industry or application. Our team thrives on industry experience, quality control standards, and strategic alliances.
No matter the complexity of your project, we’ll offer:
- Budget friendly service with fast turnaround times.
- A consultative approach to creating your prototype design: service recommendations, 3D modeling, and material selection.
- The largest network of DLP 3D printing services on the west coast, with access to a diverse set of 3D rapid prototyping equipment.
How do I get started having my object 3D printed with DLP prototyping services?
Feel free to contact us through our website or over the phone for any questions. Our team is familiar with both traditional Stereolithography and Digital Light Processing services. We leverage a diverse set of prototyping services so that your product is done with speed, accuracy, and quality.
