UV LCD technology in 3D printing has gained importance thanks to its ability to create objects cheaply, precisely and quickly. The history of this technology is closely related to the development of DLP (Digital Light Processing) technology developed by EnvisionTEC, which uses light to harden photosensitive resins layer by layer. UV LCD is an evolution of this idea, using an LCD matrix to control exposure to UV light and curing of resins. Technology Applied – the largest Polish company providing 3D printing services, uses this production method as a complement to SLS or MJF methods when high detail and surface smoothness are important.
The creator of this production method is Photocentric. The UK-based company was founded by Paul Holt, starting out as a stamp manufacturer. Using UV light to produce them, Holt recognized the potential to use similar techniques to create more complex three-dimensional objects. In 2015, Photocentric introduced the Liquid Crystal 3D printer, which used an LCD screen to control the exposure of UV light to the resin. This was a breakthrough compared to SLA or DLP methods, which were much more expensive due to the components used (a system for controlling the laser-reflecting mirror or expensive lamps used in DLP projectors).
The next companies that played a large role in popularizing this method were the Chinese Anycubic and the Taiwanese Phrozen. Both introduced 3D printers to the market that were not only affordable, but also characterized by high print quality and ease of use. They were soon followed by other Chinese companies that had previously specialized in FDM/FFF 3D printers, such as Creality3D and Wanhao. In Europe, the key manufacturers of 3D printers of this type were the Polish Zortrax with the Inkspire model and the Czech Prusa Research with the SLA-1 printer. Their wide offer has contributed to the global spread of 3D UV LCD printing technology.
Cheap LCD UV 3D printers have had a huge impact on the popularization of 3D resin printing in the world. Their affordability and ease of use have allowed this technology to be widely used both in industry and among hobbyists. They have made it possible to create complex and detailed objects from a variety of resins, opening up new possibilities in prototyping, art, medicine and many other fields.
Large industrial 3D printing houses, such as Technology Applied, use UV LCD technology to produce a wide range of products. It is used in industries such as automotive, aviation, medicine and jewelry. The possibility of rapid prototyping, product personalization and small-scale production of spare parts are just some of the benefits this technology offers.
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