TECHNOLOGY: Processes

Stereolithography is a type of rapid prototyping used to manufacture 3D objects from a digital model exported in a standard format, the format STL (STereoLithography).
Several processes are based on this production method, such as sintering and photopolymerization.

 

Selective Laser Sintering or SLS TM

In selective laser sintering, a carbon dioxide laser with low relative thermal energy is used to raise a variety of thermoplastic and metallic powders at the temperature of diffusion to a solid or sintering state.
This process is used to quickly develop objects with an extremely complex geometry that are functional and lasting, as well as a vast range of other applications.
The advantages are numerous:

  • Detailed parts and assemblies
  • Wide range of materials: plastics, metal parts, etc.
  • Possibility of highly flexible integral hinges and snap fasteners
  • High stress tolerance and thermal resistance
  • Cost-effective, small production runs
  • Used in presentations, demonstrations and video reproductions
  • Dimensional accuracy to one-thousandth of an inch
  • Quick delivery for most parts and models



graphique SLS


Photopolymerization or SLA TM

An ultraviolet laser is used in this process an as a photoinitiator in the polymerization of the materials being used.

With this technique, models with extremely complex geometry may be quickly developed with a remarkable aesthetic look. The advantages are also numerous:

  • High-quality surface finishing
  • Accuracy to one-thousandth of an inch
  • Range of resins that vary in rigidness, colour, clearness and thermal resistance
  • Possibility of cost-effective, small production runs
  • Use in presentations, demonstrations and photo-reproductions
  • Quick delivery for most parts


graphique SLA


Room Temperature Vulcanization or RTV

In this process, liquid silicone rubber is poured around a master. The resulting mould is withdrawn from the master and hardened, and then may be used to produce parts in cast urethane.

This technique is used to produce a large quantity of prototypes at a relatively low cost. The other advantages are:

  • Detailed operational prototypes and visual models
  • Production of cast urethane offering a wide range of rigidness, thermal resistance, colour and texture
  • Accuracy to one-thousandth of an inch
  • Possibility of cost-effective, small production runs
  • Parts delivery usually in two or three weeks


If you would like to learn more about rapid prototyping, please visit: www.wohlersassociates.com