3D Technologies Comparison: SLA vs. FDM
No matter how many new 3D printing technologies emerge over time, stereolithography (SLA) and fused deposition modeling (FDM) remain popular additive...
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Stereolithography (SLA) is a powerful 3D printing technology that produces extremely accurate and high resolution parts that are capable of being used directly in end-use, low-volume production, or for rapid prototyping. It offers higher resolution printing than many other 3D printing technologies, allowing customers to print parts with fine details and surface finishes.
Multiple designs for different parts can be imported at the same time to produce a single quote. In less than a minute, a detailed cost estimation appears on the screen.
First, select the manufacturing process you require. You can then choose from over 130 materials, including metals and plastics, and from a wide range of finishes and certifications.
Once you have selected the required options, all you need to do is confirm the order and pay for it on the secure payment platform. Your design will be analysed by Xometry engineers.
Within a short amount of time, you will receive the parts you ordered directly to your shipping address. You can track your package at any time in your personal account.
We can quickly produce both prototypes and large batches thanks to the largest manufacturing network, with over 10,000 vetted partners
You will get your 3D printed parts fast delivered in as fast as 3-5 days.
We have strong QA procedures, controlled by an in-house team of QA engineers, which allows us to deliver high quality parts.
All designs are checked by engineers before they’re sent for 3D printing. After confirming your order, you will receive status updates on your production.
Advantages | Considerations |
Smooth surface finish | Only resin / polymer materials |
Can print clear/ transparent parts | Limited resistance to UV light if you use resin as the printing material |
High precision | More expensive setup => more expensive smaller series |
Fast: Xometry can deliver them in just 5 days | Requires support elements |
SLA |
MJF | SLS | FDM | SLM | |
Lead time | 3 Days | 3 Days | 3 Days | 3 Days | 5 Days |
Build volume | up to 736 x 635 x 533 mm | up to 380 x 284 x 380 mm;, while we normally recommend the maximum size of 356 x 280 x 356 mm | up to 340 x 340 x 605 mm;hile we normally recommend the maximum size of 320 x 320 x 580 mm | up to 914 x 610 x 914 mm | up to 119 x 189 x 300 mm;Recommended size: within 100 x 100 x 150 mm |
Layer thickness | min 0.02mm | ~ 0.08 mm | ~ 0.1 mm,and for water-tight parts 1.5 mm, when wall thickness is higher | ~ 0.05–0.3 mm | ~ 0.1 mm |
Minimum feature size | 0.1 mm | 0.5 mm,Recommended size 0.7 mm | 0.5 mm,Recommended size 0.75 mm | up to 0.2 mm | 1.0 mm |
Tolerance | ±0.2%(± 0.2 mm) | ±0.3%(± 0.2 mm) | ±0.3% (± 0.3 mm) | ±0.3%(± 0.3 mm) | ±0.1% (±0.1 mm). However, tolerances are not guaranteed on the first attempt at a new design |
描述说明 | A technology that produces extremely accurate and high-resolution parts | One of the most popular and inexpensive technologies for industrial 3D printing | A technology that produces highly accurate and durable parts at fast speeds, especially compared to other powder bed fusion technologies | Widely known for a great material selection, accuracy, and possibility to print large parts | Metal 3D printing technology. Selectively fuses a fine metal powder in aluminium or stainless steel |
Read more about SLA | Read more about MJF | Read more about SLS | Read more about FDM | Read more about SLM |
No matter how many new 3D printing technologies emerge over time, stereolithography (SLA) and fused deposition modeling (FDM) remain popular additive...
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