Start a Quote |
Biztech Inc. : F.A.Q.
Stereolithography
Our SLA experience enables us to provide fast, cost-effective solutions to prototyping
requirements. Typical delivery is just 2 to 5 days. Many questions arise from industry
regarding stereolithography and its use. Click on one of the following links to
learn more about this new and exciting technology:
|
|
What is StereoLithography?
StereoLithography, referred to as SLA, is the pioneering technology that created
the rapid prototyping industry. SLA utilizes CAD data to create physical prototypes
in a fraction of the time taken by conventional practices, without tooling or cutting.
As a visualization tool, SLA prototypes are ideal for design review to prevent downstream
delays, errors, and costs. Biztech, an SLA service company, is your source for affordable
rapid prototypes.
|
Back to Top |
Why should I use StereoLithography?
By creating prototypes in 1 to 2 days, SLA offers the advantage of incorporating
prototyping early in the design cycle. The SLA prototype enables interrogation of
a tangible model; not just a print or a CAD display. This evaluation of fit, design,
manufacturability, and aesthetics allows early problem detection to preclude investment
of time and money in a faulty design. |
Back to Top |
Why should I use Biztech Inc.?
SLA offers numerous parameters, techniques, and options for any given prototype.
Each yields a slightly different end result. In our years of operation (since 1988
- when SLA technology was introduced), Biztech Inc. has mastered both the science
and art of SLA. Biztech Inc. applies its experience to get the most out of the technology
to deliver the best prototype possible.
|
Back to Top |
How long will it take to get my prototype?
Biztech Inc. delivers most SLA prototypes in 2 to 3 days. |
Back to Top |
How does the cost of StereoLithography compare to conventional practices?
Insensitive to the complexity of a prototype, SLA yields the greatest cost and time
savings for intricate designs. Savings may be maximized when the SLA prototype is
used as a tool in an iterative design process. Once a CAD database has been developed,
design changes can be easily incorporated for a quick and cost effective second
iteration. |
Back to Top |
What material is used?
The prototype material is most similar to an acrylic. It is rigid and opaque.
|
Back to Top |
What tolerances can be held?
The tolerances are highly dependent on the way prototypes are built and cured. At Biztech Inc., our tolerances are normally within +/-0.005" per inch. |
Back to Top |
What is the surface finish like?
Surfaces are smooth and non-porous.
|
Back to Top |
Can I use the prototype for functional testing?
Our SLA prototypes have been used as functional test pieces for head lamp assemblies,
valves, consumer products, and many other applications. It is best to discuss your
requirements with one of our staff engineers. |
Back to Top |
Can I get scale models?
Yes. Biztech Inc. has found this especially useful in scaling up small parts with significant
detail. The larger model enables visualization of the geometry. Many clients elect
to have both a full size and a scale model made. Typically the cost of both is only
slightly greater than the cost of one. |
Back to Top |
Can you paint the prototype? Sand it? Machine it? Tap it?
Yes. The material lends itself well to all these applications. Biztech Inc. has established procedures to finish models to your specifications. Should you
wish to do this yourself, Biztech Inc. will share these procedures. |
Back to Top |
Can I use the prototype, directly, to take me to downstream processes?
Yes. A significant number of traditional processes have been used to yield plastic
and metal components. These processes utilize the SLA model as a master or pattern
for soft tooling. These methods provide a reduction in pattern development time
and the opportunity to proof the design prior to building the tooling.
|
Back to Top |
What is a good StereoLithography application?
As with any technology, there are appropriate applications. The greatest benefits
are realized on designs with significant design complexity. SLA is best applied
as a proof tool where conventional tooling and machining are time consuming and
costly. |
Back to Top |
How big can my prototype be?
Our capabilities are best suited to 10"x10"x10" or 20"x20"x20" build envelopes.
However, the material lends itself to bonding of separate pieces to achieve larger
parts. |
Back to Top |
Do I have to provide a CAD file, and if so, from what system?
We accepts any form of data: sketch, print, IGES, DXF, CAD file, or STL file.
For sketches and prints, our engineering staff will build the required 3D solid
model on a Parametric (tm) Pro/ENGINEER CAD/CAE system. We can also accept 2D and
3D IGES or DXF data to translate your data into a 3D solid model.
If you have a 3D surfaced wireframe or solid model, Biztech Inc., in most cases, can directly
accept the data to generate the required SLA input format, known as an STL file.
We can always accept an STL file, from any system, to build your SLA model. |
Back to Top |
How can I transfer CAD data?
Solid Model (Pro/E, AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Inventor), .STL or .IGES can be sent by
E-mail: sales@biztechrp.com, or
Login and use the
RP Quote
link
|
Back to Top
|
If I need 2 prototypes, will that double my cost?
No. In most cases multiples will only cost an additional 15% to 50%. |
Back to Top
|
How do I get a quote?
For quotations, we request a sketch with overall dimensions, or a STL file . |
Back to Top
|
|
|