VAT 201: Vat Photopolymerization (SLA/DLP)
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- ✓Video lessons with real 3D printing setups
- ✓Calibration parameters
- ✓Downloadable STL examples + gcode profiles
- ✓AI tutor for questions
- ✓Completion certificate
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Vat photopolymerization delivers precision and surface quality that FDM simply cannot reach. The course covers the three key variants – LCD, mSLA and DLP – with emphasis on safety, materials and post-processing.
What you will learn
- The difference between SLA, mSLA, LCD and DLP optical systems
- Photopolymer chemistry and the UV curing reaction
- File preparation – orientation, supports, hollowing, drain holes
- Exposure calibration – Cones of Calibration, test parts
- Safe resin handling – IPA, latex gloves, ventilation
- Post-processing – washing, UV cure, support removal
- FEP/nFEP film and LCD panel maintenance
Course outline
- Lesson 1: Vat photopolymerization – physics and history
- Lesson 2: LCD/mSLA printers – anatomy and calibration
- Lesson 3: DLP – advantages and trade-offs
- Lesson 4: File preparation in a resin slicer
- Lesson 5: Exposure testing and material-specific profiles
- Lesson 6: Wash and cure – timings, IPA, ultrasonic
- Lesson 7: Safety, waste disposal and regulations
- Lesson 8: Final project – a precision functional part
Prerequisites
No mandatory prior FDM experience, though basic CAD skills help when preparing supports.
Outcome
You print high-quality resin parts with predictable geometric accuracy, handle photopolymers safely, and judge when resin is the better choice over FDM.
Who it is for
Dentists, jewellers, miniaturists, precision-prototype engineers and service bureaus expanding their technology portfolio.