Vat photopolymerization
What is DLP / LCD and how does it work?
Resin printing methods that cure an entire layer at once with light; faster than SLA.
Digital Light Processing and Masked Stereolithography
DLP (Digital Light Processing) uses a projector and LCD (MSLA) uses a screen mask to cure the entire cross-section of a layer at once. Since no laser drawing is needed, they are fast, especially in dental and jewelry applications where many small parts are printed together. Resolution is set by pixel size; pixel marks can be visible on large parts.
| Typical tolerance | ±0.2 – 0.5% (lower limit ±0.1 mm) |
|---|---|
| Layer thickness | 25 – 100 µm |
| Minimum wall thickness | 0.5 – 1 mm |
| XY resolution | Pixel size 20 – 75 µm |
| Surface | Smooth; pixel marks possible on large surfaces |
| Supports | Required |
Process
DLP / LCD step by step
- 01
The platform lowers into the resin vat.
- 02
A projector or LCD screen shows the layer image in one exposure.
- 03
The whole layer cures at once.
- 04
The process repeats layer by layer.
- 05
Washing and post-curing follow.
Advantages
- Layer time stays the same even with a full platform; fast for series of small parts
- Fine detail
- Common resin choices for dental and jewelry
Limitations
- Pixel marks on large parts
- Build size usually small
- Same post-processing needs as SLA
Best suited for
- Dental models and splints
- Jewelry patterns
- Miniatures
- Series of small parts
Design
DLP / LCD design guidelines
- Minimum wall thickness0.5 – 1 mm
- Smallest detail0.2 mm
- Minimum hole diameterØ 0.5 mm
- Overhang angle≥ 30° from horizontal; flatter surfaces need support
- Clearance for moving parts0.2 – 0.4 mm
- Text and logosEmbossed ≥ 0.3 mm
- Escape holeØ 3 mm drain hole in hollow parts
Surface and assembly
Post-processing
- IPA washing
- UV post-curing
- Sanding support marks
Good to know
Frequently asked questions about DLP / LCD
What is DLP / LCD?
DLP (Digital Light Processing) uses a projector and LCD (MSLA) uses a screen mask to cure the entire cross-section of a layer at once. Since no laser drawing is needed, they are fast, especially in dental and jewelry applications where many small parts are printed together. Resolution is set by pixel size; pixel marks can be visible on large parts.
How does DLP / LCD work?
The platform lowers into the resin vat. A projector or LCD screen shows the layer image in one exposure. The whole layer cures at once. The process repeats layer by layer. Washing and post-curing follow.
What applications is DLP / LCD suitable for?
DLP / LCD is especially suitable for dental models and splints, jewelry patterns, miniatures, series of small parts.
How accurate are DLP / LCD parts?
Typical tolerance is ±0.2 – 0.5% (lower limit ±0.1 mm). The exact value depends on the machine, material and part geometry.
Other technologies
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