Stereolithography (SLA) uses a laser to cure liquid photopolymer resin into solid plastic, building parts layer by layer. The laser selectively traces each cross-section of the design onto the surface of the resin, hardening it with precision.<\/p>\n
Photopolymer resins.<\/p>\n
SLA printing is ideal for high-resolution prototypes, moulds, and medical devices that require fine details and smooth surface finishes.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>
DLP uses a digital light projector to flash a single image of each layer of the 3D model onto a vat of liquid photopolymer resin. The light cures the resin in that layer\u2019s shape. The build platform then moves up or down to allow for the next layer to be projected and cured.<\/p>\n
Photopolymer resins.<\/p>\n
High-detail prototypes, dental models, jewelry, and small parts requiring fine features and smooth surfaces.<\/p>\n
FDM works by extruding thermoplastic filament through a heated nozzle, which melts the material and deposits it layer by layer to build the object.<\/p>\n
PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU, and more.<\/p>\n
Prototyping, hobbyist projects, and some functional parts.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>
Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) uses a high-powered laser to fuse powdered material layer by layer, forming a solid 3D object. The laser selectively scans and sinters each cross-section of the design, bonding the particles without the need for support structures.<\/p>\n
Common materials include nylon, polyamide, thermoplastic elastomers, and certain metal powders.<\/p>\n
SLS printing is ideal for functional prototypes, end-use parts, and complex geometries that are difficult or impossible to produce with traditional manufacturing methods.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>
Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) uses fine-grained powder, typically nylon, which is evenly distributed across the build platform. A fusing agent is selectively jetted onto areas where the particles are intended to fuse, while a detailing agent is applied around the edges to enhance resolution and surface finish. A heat source then passes over the layer, causing the treated areas to solidify and form the part layer by layer.<\/p>\n
Primarily nylon (PA 12, PA 11), with growing support for other thermoplastics and elastomers.<\/p>\n
Functional prototypes, end-use parts, complex geometries, and components requiring high strength and fine detail.<\/p>\n
Multi Jet Fusion is especially valued in industries such as automotive, consumer goods, and healthcare for its ability to deliver high-quality, functional parts with speed and scalability.<\/div><\/div><\/div>