How does UV LCD 3D printing technology work?

3D UV LCD printing technology has revolutionized the additive manufacturing industry, offering fast and accurate creation of complex designs, while maintaining low operating costs. This process uses UV light to harden liquid resin layer by layer, allowing the creation of precise and detailed objects. A company that successfully uses this additive method in production is Technology Applied – the largest Polish company providing 3D printing services.

The basis of operation of UV LCD 3D printers is the use of ultraviolet light to harden the light-curing resin. The process begins by placing the resin in a special container. The 3D printer then uses an LCD matrix to display images of each layer of the object on the bottom of the container, where there is a film that transmits UV light. UV light hardens the resin in specific places, creating a layer of the object. After each layer hardens, the 3D printer platform moves up, allowing the next layer to be created.

Various types of resins can be used in 3D UV LCD printing, depending on the required strength, flexibility and transparency. The most popular resins are standard, flexible, impact-resistant, and those intended for jewelry casting.

The wavelength of UV light is crucial in the curing process of resins. Typically, wavelengths from 385 to 405 nm are used. The containers containing the resin have a special foil (so-called film) at the bottom. It is a flexible, transparent membrane that allows UV light to pass through and allows for precise curing of the resin.

One of the main advantages of 3D UV LCD printing is the possibility of low-volume production. One or several pieces can be printed at the same time, which is especially beneficial for prototyping and small-scale production. When printing large objects, there may be a problem with shrinkage due to the sudden photopolymerization of a large surface. Changes in size and shape may affect the accuracy and quality of the print.

3D UV LCD printing technology is used in many industries, including the automotive, aerospace, medical and jewelry industries. It allows you to create accurate prototypes, spare parts, tools, and personalized products. Techology Applied uses this production method as a complement to its wide production offer, using other additive techniques such as SLS, MJF, SLA, PolyJet or FDM / FFF.

Photo: www.ta.parts