Like any other production technique, Additive Manufacturing has its limitations, such as accuracy. But did you know that it’s possible to produce very accurate parts through DLP-technology?
DLP (Digital Light Processing) is very similar to SLA, but instead of using a laser that traces a layer, DLP uses a projected light source to cure the entire layer at once. Besides a shorter production time, DLP-technology is highly appreciated for its high accuracy and surface quality.
As a consequence, less time and costs are needed for post-processing. More importantly, DLP makes it possible to produce parts with highly complex designs. However, this doesn’t mean that DLP is the answer for every application. There is a limitation in terms of size: the bigger the part, the less accurate it
will be. Another consideration, like other AM techniques, is shrinkage for which the same rule is applicable.
Below is an example of a micro-plug which is applied as a glass fiber connector in neurological research (Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience). It’s a typical example of a perfect application where accuracy can be achieved.
The bottom line is that despite the limitations of DLP, your requirements will still be the leading factor in the choice of the right materials. And the choice of materials defines the AM technique after all.