stereolithography full report
#1

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INTRODUCTION
Rapid prototyping automates the fabrication of a prototype part from a three- dimensional (3D) CAD drawing. This physical model conveys more complete information about the product earlier in the development cycle. The turnaround time for a typical rapid prototype part can take a few days. Conventional prototyping may take weeks or even months, depending on the method used. Rapid prototyping can be quicker more cost effective means of building prototypes as opposed to conventional methods.
Fabrication process fall into 3 categories: Subtractive, Additive and compressive. In a subtractive process a block of material is carved out to produce the desired shape. An additive process builds materials by joining particles or layers or raw materials. A compressive process forces a semi solid or liquid into desired shape, in which it is induces to harden or solidify. Most conventional prototypes fall into subtractive category
These would include machining processes such as milling, turning, and grinding. Machining methods are difficult to use on parts with very small internal cavities or complex geometries. Compressive processes, also conventional, include casting and molding .The new rapid prototyping technologies are additive processes. They can be categorized by material: photopolymer, thermoplastic, and adhesives. Photopolymer systems start with a liquid resin, which is then solidified by discriminating exposure to a specific wavelength of light, Thermoplastic systems begin with a solid material, which is then melted and fuses upon cooling. The adhesive systems use a binder to connect the primary construction material. Rapid prototyping systems are capable of creating parts with small internal cavities and complex geometries. Also, the integration of rapid prototyping and compressive processes has resulted in the quicker generation of patterns from which moulds are made.
fig. Rapid Prototyped part
Rapid prototyping was commercially introduced in 1987 with the presentation of Stereo lithography. Several processes are now commercially available in the industry. They are as follows:
1. Stereo lithography
2. Selective Laser Sintering
3. Fused Deposition Modeling
4. Laminated Object Manufacturing
5. 3 D Inkjet Printing
6. Solid Ground Curing
Among these RP techniques Stereo lithography is most commonly and widely used.
*****************
THE BASIC PROCESS
Although several rapid prototyping techniques exist, all employ the same basic five-step process. The steps are:
1. Create a CAD model of the design
2. Convert the CAD model to STL format
3. Slice the STL file into thin cross-sectional layers
4. Construct the model one layer atop another
5. Clean and finish the model
CAD Model Creation: First, the object to be built is modeled using a Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software package. Solid modelers, such as Pro/ENGINEER, tend to represent 3-D objects more accurately than wire-frame modelers such as AutoCAD, and will therefore yield better results. The designer can use a pre-existing CAD file or may wish to create one expressly for prototyping purposes. This process is identical for all of the RP build techniques.
Fig.2 CAD Model
Conversion to STL Format: The various CAD packages use a number of different algorithms to represent solid objects. To establish consistency, the STL (stereo lithography, the first RP technique) format has been adopted as the standard of the rapid prototyping industry. The second step, therefore, is to convert the CAD file into STL format. This format represents a three-dimensional surface as an assembly of planar triangles, "like the facets of a cut jewel." 6 The file contains the coordinates of the vertices and the direction of the outward normal of each triangle. Because STL files use planar elements, they cannot represent curved surfaces exactly. Increasing the number of triangles improves the approximation, but at the cost of bigger file size. Large, complicated files require more time to pre-process and build, so the designer must balance accuracy with manageability to produce a useful STL file. Since the .stl format is universal, this process is identical for all of the RP build techniques.
Slice the STL File: In the third step, a pre-processing program prepares the STL file to be built. Several programs are available, and most allow the user to adjust the size, location and orientation of the model. Build orientation is important for several reasons. First, properties of rapid prototypes vary from one coordinate direction to another. For example, prototypes are usually weaker and less accurate in the z (vertical) direction than in the x-y plane. In addition, part orientation partially determines the amount of time required to build the model. Placing the shortest dimension in the z direction reduces the number of layers, thereby shortening build time. The pre-processing software slices the STL model into a number of layers from 0.01 mm to 0.7 mm thick, depending on the build technique. The program may also generate an auxiliary structure to support the model during the build. Supports are useful for delicate features such as overhangs, internal cavities, and thin-walled sections. Each PR machine manufacturer supplies their own proprietary pre-processing software.
Layer by Layer Construction: The fourth step is the actual construction of the part. Using one of several techniques (described in the next section) RP machines build one layer at a time from polymers, paper, or powdered metal. Most machines are fairly autonomous, needing little human intervention.
Clean and Finish: The final step is post-processing. This involves removing the prototype from the machine and detaching any supports. Some photosensitive materials need to be fully cured before use. Prototypes may also require minor cleaning and surface treatment. Sanding, sealing, and/or painting the model will improve its appearance and durability.
WHAT IS STEREO LITHOGRAPHY
SL is the most popular and widely is used rapid prototyping technology. It is a unique form of technology which allows for the translation of computer aided design drawing to3D solid objects with in hours. In Stereo Lithography liquid plastic is solidified in precise patterns by laser beam resulting in solid epoxy realization of a 3D design. This ultraviolet laser beam is guided by CAD data.
Parts created using Stereo Lithography must be modeled through the use of CAD system, such as ANSYS, AUTOCAD, IDEAS; Pro.-Engineer etc.The CAD files are stored in STL format which defines the boundary surface of the object as mesh of interconnected triang
Stereo Lithography process can be run in 3 modes:
1. ACES MODE.
2. QUICK CAST
3. SOLID WEAVE
The ACES mode produces crystal like transparency and exceptional strength at very high dimensional resolution. This mode of stereo lithography is perfect for parts that require exceptional visual quality such as lenses and optical components. Quick Cast is a SL mode creates quasi-hollow parts with a strong honey comb interior which is 80% hollow. From a quick cast prototype metal parts can be made 3-5 days. Solid weave boasts the quickest turnaround time of SLA modes with out compromising on strength and precision. It is also most economical of three.
STEREO LITHOGRAPHY MACHINE
Stereo lithography, also known as 3-D layering or 3-D printing, is accomplished using a special SLA machine containing a computer-controlled laser and a tank of light-curable plastic, or photopolymer
Stereo lithography machine
This machine has four important parts:
1. A tank filled with several gallons of liquid photopolymer. The photopolymer is a clear liquid plastic.
2. A perforated platform immersed in the tank. The platform moves up and down in the tank as the printing process proceeds
3. An ultraviolet laser
4. A computer that drives the laser and the platform
The platform in the tank of photopolymer at the beginning
The platform at the end of a print run, shown here with several identical objects
Object curing machine


THE STEREO LITHOGRAPHY PROCESS
Fig 3: Schematic diagram of stereo lithography. 7
he basic Stereo lithography process consists of the following steps:
¢ A 3-D model of an object is created in a CAD program.
¢ Special computer software "cuts" the CAD model file into thin layers typically five to 10 layers per millimeter of part thickness.
¢ The 3-D printer's ultraviolet laser "paints" one of the layers, exposing the top surface of the liquid plastic in the tank and hardening it. The photopolymer is sensitive to ultraviolet light, so wherever the laser touches the photopolymer, the polymer hardens.
¢ The platform drops down into the tank a fraction of a millimeter, and then the laser "paints" the next layer on top of the previous layer.
¢ This process repeats, layer by layer, until the 3-dimensional plastic model is complete.
¢ Depending upon the size and number of objects being created, the laser might take a minute or two for each layer. A typical run might take six to 12 hours. Runs over several days are possible for large objects. The maximum size for the machine is an object 10 inches (25 cm) in each of
Three dimensions ... 10 x 10 x 10.
¢ When the process is complete, the SLA machine raises the platform with the completed 3-D object. If the finished object is small, several can be produced at the same time, sitting next to each other on the tray.
¢ Once the run is complete, the finished objects are rinsed with solvent to remove all uncured plastic and then "baked" in an ultraviolet oven that thoroughly cures the plastic
The sequence of steps for producing Stereo lithography layer is shown in the following figures;
Uncured resin is removed and the model is post-cured to fully cure the resin. Because of the layered process, the model has a surface composed of stair steps. Sanding can remove the stair steps for a cosmetic finish. Model build orientation is important for stair stepping and build time. In general, orienting the long axis of the model vertically takes longer but has minimal stair steps. Orienting the long axis horizontally shortens build time but magnifies the stair steps. For aesthetic purposes, the model can be primed and painted.
During fabrication, if extremities of the part become too weak, it may be necessary to use supports to prop up the model. The supports can be generated by the program that creates the slices, and the supports are only used for fabrication. The following three figures show why supports are necessary:
STL (Stereo Lithography) FILES
The .STL file format has become SLA industry's standard CAD export format and is required to interact with stereo lithography machines. This format approximates the surfaces of a solid model with small triangles and was designed to give the proper amount of model detail required to operate the Stereo Lithography machines
Virtually all of today's modern CAD software programs are capable of producing an STL file. For the user, the process is often as simple as selecting File, Save As, STL.
SLA ACCURACY
SLA Y parts may be built using normal or "high" resolution. Normal resolution is typically defined as SLA parts build using a .010" or larger laser beam diameter and .004" or greater layer thickness. Building parts in this manner results in the most cost-effective build, but may not catch all of the tiny features of small parts or tools. Normal resolution SLA can manufacture parts with tolerances of +/- .005 to .006 inches. This is the standard resolution available at most suppliers.
High resolution is defined as an SLA part builds using a .003" - .004" diameter laser beam and/or a layer thickness less than .004". Building parts with the smaller laser beam diameter results in parts with sharp corners and the thinnest possible walls. Thin layers reduce the cleanup required to smooth out contours or to polish tooling masters. High resolution SLA can manufacture parts with tolerances of +/- .002 to .003 inches. This build style results in the most accurate, highest quality parts available in the industry, but it is also slower and more expensive than normal resolution.
SLA MATERIALS
A number of excellent photopolymer materials are now available for SLA rapid prototyping. Each material has unique properties which can be used to simulate more traditional metals or plastics for rapid prototypes.
Some SLA resins mimic traditional engineering plastics such as PBT or ABS, with toughness and durability that make the resulting SLA parts suitable for mechanical testing and evaluation. Other SLA resins have properties similar to polypropylene, with fine features and details that can provide accurate test parts. If higher temperatures are needed, new SLA resins provide heat deflection resistance up to 220°F (105°C) as compared to traditional limits of 130°F (55°C). And, for near-metal performance, ceramic-filled SLA resins can be used to make parts with superior stiffness and high temperature resistance. The high stiffness also provides mechanical foundation for structural Nickel plating the resulting parts have a composite structure with mechanical and thermal performance approaching that of metal.
New SLA resins are constantly being developed and refined to extend the mechanical and thermal performance of SLA parts.
APPLICATION OF SLA TECHNOLOGY
¢ Aesthetical and conceptual models “
It is used to produce models that are eye-catching and complex. This is because it can convert CAD exactly into 3-D coordinates.
¢ Parts requiring detail and accuracy “
The resolution of laser used can be increased to sufficiently high levels. Also layer thickness can be varied. So we can make more accurate models.
¢ Master patterns for casting “
Using this technology, master castings for processes like vacuum casting, investment casting, sand casting, injection molding.
BENEFITS OF SLA
¢ Crisp and highly detailed pieces
¢ Speed of delivery( usually 2 to 3 days)
¢ Tolerance with .005 inch/inch
¢ Saves money
¢ Time saving
¢ Test product
¢ Locates error
¢ Improves design
¢ Sells product
¢ Rapid manufacturing
PROBLEMS WITH RAPID PROTOTYPING
¢ Part accuracy
The model is composed of several layers. When slant edges and curves are involved, no finishing is obtained. Instead a stair-case like appearance is the result. Also the parts involved are subjected to shrinkage and distortion.
¢ Limited variety of materials in Rapid Prototyping
Mechanical performance of the fabricated parts is limited by the materials used in the Rapid Prototyping process.
CONCLUSION
Stereo Lithography saves time, money, allows speedy delivery and helps in improving design. Stereo Lithography can be applied to almost any industry including oil refining, petrochemical, power and marine industries. It is also the most effective and economical of all Rapid Prototyping techniques. It is still a technology in its growing stages and will prove to be a major technology in the future.
REFERENCES
Advanced High Temperature Resins for Stereo Lithography from proceedings of 7th International conference on Rapid Prototyping, University of Dayton, San Francisco.
stereolithography.com
howstuffworks.com
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#2
Stereolithography of plastic parts
Highlights
The key to successful prototyping with Stereolithography is material selection. The process is well proven and accuracies generally sufficient for most applications. However, choose the wrong material and disappointment looms.
Whilst all of the materials used in Stereolithography are process specific, they have evolved to emulate various production plastics. Thus the key is usually the production intent material, or at least the desired properties.
Plunkett Associates regularly accesses a full range of materials and process platforms, offering the latest technology, the largest platforms and the highest levels of resolution.
Whilst deliveries are always tailored to customer requirements, a typical turnaround would be 5 - 7 days.
Whilst Stereolithography is good for general purpose prototyping it should be evaluated against better functionality from laser sintering and even better accuracy from machining.
Process Features
Accuracy
Tolerances vary depending on material and supplier, however as a generality Stereolithography is still superior to most other RP processes.
Minimum Feature Size
Typically 0.25mm (this is resin dependent) unless using high resolution (HR).
Layer thickness
Typically 0.1 or 0.15mm, unless using high resolution (HR).
Bed sizes
Vary from 250 x 250 mm up to 650 x 750 mm allowing the single piece manufacture of a wide range of part sizes.
Post processing
Parts can be dressed to a high cosmetic finish for display purposes or to be used as a master for vacuum casting. Stereolithography parts may also be electroformed, ie plated with a thin layer of metal, to significantly increase their strength and hermetically seal the resin inside a metal shell. This can be used just to provide EMI/RFI shielding, but offers serious strength and stiffness benefits as well.
Description
Like most RP processes Stereolithography relies on the 3D CAD data of the component being resolved (sliced) into a series of layers that can then be sequentially recreated. A laser drawing on the surface of a tank of liquid resin that, when exposed to the laser light changes state from liquid to solid, forms each layer.
Parts are built on a support structure that anchors the developing part to the machine bed and must be manually stripped away afterwards.
The additive nature of the process permits almost any geometry to be created without concerns about 'access' that would be applicable to machining.
Clear Parts using Stereolithography
Stereolithography is capable of producing clear parts. For full details view the stereolithography of clear parts page.
Lightweight Structures
For thick walled parts and very large parts there can be process advantages to hollowing out the inside. TetraShell facilitates this and allows the addition of a mesh that can be fully customised.
Benefits range from basic process advantages to being able to create lightweight structures that utilise the full potential of additive manufacture.
Biocompatible Stereolithography
It is frequently necessary to produce biocompatible prototypes for clinical trials or early development testing. By specifying the use of Watershed (biocompatible) parts can be made that pass USP Class VI testing for biocompatibility and cytotoxicity as well as ISO 10993 Part 5 cytotoxicity and Part 10 irritation and sensitisation.
These parts are supplied with certificate of conformance, material lot traceability and double bagged to allow easy sterilisation.
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#3
hey dude...i hv a prob with opening ppt...it says no text converter installed...wat to do?
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#4
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STEREOLITHOGRAPHY



Presented By:
Abhijit Mishra


PROTOTYPING

Subtractive (Conventional Process)
Milling
Grinding
Turning
Compressive
Additive
Photopolymer
Thermoplastic
Adhesives






Why Rapid Prototyping

Reduce product development time and cost
Get products to market sooner
Enhance communications between marketing, engineering, manufacturing, and purchasing
Present physical model at critical design reviews
Generate precise production tooling




Rapid Prototype Process

Creation of a 3-D model of a object in a CAD program

BASIC PROCESS

Create CAD model of the design
Conversion to STL format
Slice the STL file
Layer by layer construction
Cleaning and finishing
Slices

Conversion of a solid model of an object into layers (only one layer is shown)
Software chops your CAD model up into thin layers -- typically five to 10 layers/millimeter
SLA Interface
Stereolithograpy was first commercial Solid Freeform Manufacturing process, released in 80â„¢s by 3-D Systems

3-D Systems developed interface between CAD systems and their machine

STL files (*.stl) allow CAD systems to interface with 3-D system machines

Many CAD programs now can export the *.stl file for easy conversion from CAD to part
PARTS OF A SLA MACHINE

Tank filled with several gallons of liquid photopolymer.
The photopolymer is a clear, liquid plastic.
A perforated platform immersed in the tank.
The platform can move up and down in the tank as the printing process proceeds.
An ultraviolet laser
A computer that drives the laser and the platform
A typical StereoLithography apparatus
INSIDE OF SLA MACHINE
SLA PLATFORM
STEREOLIHOGRAPHY PROCESS

Polymer solidifies when struck by the laserâ„¢s intense UV light
Elevator lowers hardened cross section below liquid surface
Laser prints the next cross section directly on top of previous
After entire 3-d part is formed it is post-cured (UV light)


Stereolithography:

(1) at the start of the process, in which the initial layer is added to the platform; and (2) after several layers have been added so that the part geometry gradually takes form
StereoLithography Overview
Applications

Aesthetic & conceptual models
Parts requiring detail & accuracy
Master patterns for castings
Crisp, highly-detailed pieces
Speed of delivery (usually 2-3 days)
Tolerances within .005"/inch
Save Money
Save Time
Improve Design
Rapid Manufacturing






Conclusions

Stereolithography is fast and effective.
Stereolithography can be applied to almost every industry, including oil refining, petrochemical, power and marine.
Stereolithography saves time, money, allows speed delivery, and improve designs
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#5

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StereoLithography (SL)
u Process Characteristics
+ 3D Systems - inventor
+ UV laser solidifies liquid photopolymer in layers using a scanning system
+ Liquid is replenished and leveled between layers
+ Parts require support structures
+ Completed parts require cleaning and UV or Thermal post curing
Selective Selective Layer Sintering (SLS)
u Process Characteristics
+ C02 laser fuses thermoplastics powders in layers using a computer controller scanning system
+ Powder is replenished and the next layer is scanned
+ Powder temperature is maintained near melting point to aid fusion and minimize distortions
+ Supports may be used
u Energy Source: 100 Watt CO2 Lasers
u Materials: DuraForm (nylon), DuraForm GF (glass-filled nylon), DuraForm EX (elastomer); Ti, SS, CoCr…
u DTM, Austin, TX, now 3D systems
u accuracy 160 mm
u no supports
u polycarbonate, nylon, wax, glass-filled nylon, powder coated metals or ceramics
u can be end-use parts
3D Printing
• ZCorpSanders Prototype Inc., NH
• ink jet technology
• dual heads deposit part material (thermoplastic) and support material (wax)
• build layers as thin as .0005”very fast and cheap process
• Print head deposits binder into vat of powder.
• Powder recoating is similar to SLS.
• As easy to use as a network printer.
• Fast and inexpensive.
• Fragile and limited accuracy
– good infiltrants available
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