Digital Photopolymer

Q: Is digital photopolymer printing suitable for end-use parts?

Digital photopolymer printing has mainly been used for prototyping. It’s great for quickly turning designs into detailed, precise models—perfect for checking how a part looks, fits, or works early in development, like testing the shape of a new phone case or a small mechanical component. But lately, it’s starting to be used more for end-use parts, too. For example, some dental clinics now use it to print custom aligners that patients wear directly. Small electronics brands also make limited runs of unique headphone shells this way, since the technology handles fine details well and works for small batches.

Q: Can digital photopolymer parts have varying hardness?

Absolutely! Digital photopolymer 3D printing excels at producing parts with tailored hardness, and our flexible to semi-rigid resins’ typical hardness range from Shore A 30-95 (e.g., rubber-like gaskets to firm casings), while rigid resins fall in the Shore D 83-86 range, making them ideal for structural components comparable to ABS or PC plastics. Advanced resin chemistries and precision printing parameters (e.g., UV exposure, layer thickness) enable precise control over crosslink density, allowing hardness customization for specific applications—from soft-touch grips to load-bearing parts. (Note: Actual values may vary based on printer model, resin type, and post-processing.)

Q: What color options are available?

We offer standard choices: clear/translucent, white, and black. These are readily available and ideal for applications where a classic, versatile palette suffices—from functional prototypes to basic end-use parts. But if your projects require specific or custom colors, we’re happy to accommodate tailored requests. Simply share your desired color codes (such as Pantone, RAL, or RGB values) in your inquiry, and our team will work with you to discuss feasibility, material compatibility, and any adjustments needed to achieve the exact apperance color you’re looking for.

Q: What 3D printing technologies are compatible with digital photopolymer?

Digital photopolymer 3D printing is compatible with several technologies, and in our workflow, PolyJet and SLA stand as the primary ones we use—their reliable performance across diverse applications makes them our go-to choices: PolyJet operates by spraying tiny droplets of liquid photopolymer resin onto the build platform, with each layer instantly cured by ultraviolet light. This technology excels at printing parts that involve multiple materials or intricate details, making it perfect for complex prototypes where precise color or hardness variations are required. That said, it does come with relatively higher costs. On the other hand, SLA (Stereolithography) is the most widely used and cost-effective option in our product line. Its working principle is to use ultraviolet laser to solidify the liquid photosensitive resin layer by layer, achieving a good balance between speed and precision. It is particularly suitable for manufacturing smooth and functional components, whether of medium size or larger sizes. Other compatible technologies include DLP (Digital Light Processing) and CDLP (Continuous Digital Light Processing) . These utilize digital light sources for resin curing and are often deployed in specific scenarios that demand ultra-fast printing or extremely fine detail reproduction.

Our high-precision digital photopolymers deliver sub-0.1mm detail resolution—think intricate jewelry filigree or microfluidic device channels—and ultra-smooth surfaces (Ra ≤ 0.3μm), cutting post-processing work. UV-cured for 30% higher durability than standard resins, withstanding repeated use in prototypes or end parts.

Fast UV curing for rapid prototyping turns
Chemical-resistant for industrial longevity
Multi-color compatibility for vivid details

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SLA 3D Printing

Other 3D Printing Options

Digital Photopolymer Overview

Digital photopolymer 3D printing is an advanced additive manufacturing process that harnesses digital light projection technologies, such as DLP (Digital Light Processing) and LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), to fabricate three-dimensional objects with remarkable precision. At its core, the printer takes a digital 3D model and slices it into numerous thin cross-sections. A specific wavelength of ultraviolet (UV) light, typically emitted by a UV light source in the printer, is then directed towards a vat of liquid photopolymer resin. This resin contains photoinitiators which, upon exposure to the UV light, trigger a polymerization reaction. As the light projects the shape of each layer onto the resin surface according to the sliced model data, the resin in the illuminated areas rapidly solidifies, forming a solid layer. The build platform then moves either up or down by the thickness of a single layer, and the process repeats. This layer-by-layer solidification and stacking continue until the entire 3D object is fully formed.

Its “digital-driven” design, featuring technologies like DLP’s micromirror arrays, enables pixel-level light control—cutting layer curing time to 1–10 seconds and achieving ±0.01mm precision, making it ideal for intricate details. Traditional SLA, with its laser point-scanning, offers its own strengths in certain applications, and you can explore our SLA or other 3D printing services via the navigation below for options that may suit your needs.

Digital Photopolymer 3D Printing Workflow

(Click to Enlarge)

Digital Preparation: A 3D model is sliced into ultra-thin cross-sections (typically 5–100μm thick) using specialized software, generating layer-by-layer digital blueprints with precise dimensions.

Layered Curing: The printer projects UV light onto a vat of liquid photopolymer resin, matching the exact shape of the first sliced layer. The resin’s photoinitiators react instantly to the light, triggering polymerization—solidifying only the illuminated area into a firm, precise layer.

Platform Movement: The build platform shifts upward (or the resin vat lowers) by the exact thickness of one layer, exposing a fresh film of liquid resin for the next cross-section.

Primary Cleaning: Once printing finishes, the part is removed from the build platform and submerged in isopropyl alcohol (IPA) or a specialized cleaning solution for 5–10 minutes to dissolve uncured resin clinging to surfaces, ensuring no sticky residue remains.

Secondary Curing: The cleaned part is placed in a UV curing chamber (with controlled intensity and wavelength) for 10–30 minutes. This step fully activates the resin’s cross-linking, boosting mechanical strength (e.g., tensile strength or flexibility) by up to 40% compared to the initial printed state.

Finishing Touches (Optional): For higher precision, fine sanding with micro-grit sandpaper (400–1000 grit) smooths layer lines; some parts may also undergo painting, coating, or assembly depending on end-use needs.

SLA/PolyJet Printing Capabilities & Material Properties

SLA

Parameter	Specs
Printing Accuracy	±0.05-0.2mm (higher accuracy for small parts, e.g., dental models up to ±0.01mm; ±0.1%×L for large parts >100mm)
Layer Thickness Range	25-100μm (standard 50μm; 16μm in high-precision industrial machines)
Surface Roughness	Ra 1.6-3.2μm (requires post-polishing for higher smoothness; specialized resins can reach Ra 0.8μm for dental use)
Printing Speed	5-20mm/h (vertical direction; slower for complex geometries; high-speed models like ProX 950 offer 10x efficiency)
Maximum Build Size	Up to 1000×800×500mm (industrial machines; desktop models typically 200×200×200mm)

PolyJet

Parameter	Specs
Printing Accuracy	±0.02-0.1mm (up to ±0.01mm for small parts; supports microchannels <0.5mm and complex hollow structures)
Layer Thickness Range	16-30μm (14μm in high-precision models like J850 Prime)
Surface Roughness	Ra 0.8-1.6μm (injection-mold-like finish; no post-polishing needed for most applications)
Printing Speed	10-30mm/h (vertical direction; faster with multi-nozzle jetting; 30% speed boost for clear aligners in high-speed mode)
Maximum Build Size	Up to 500×400×300mm (industrial models like J850 Prime; dental-specific DentaJet XL for mass production)

		Shore A
	ASTM Standard	30	40	50	60	70	85	95	Rigid
Tensile Strength	D-412	2.4-3.1 MPa	3.0-4.0 MPa	3.0-4.0 MPa	3.5-4.5 MPa	4.0-6.0 MPa	6.0-10.0 MPa	10.0-14.0 MPa	50-65 MPa
Elongation at Break	D-412	220-270%	190-210%	170-210%	150-170%	120-140%	70-90%	50-70%	10.0-25.0%
Tensile Tear Strength	D-624	5.0-7.0 Kg/cm	6.0-8.0 Kg/cm	7.0-9.0 Kg/cm	7.0-10.0 Kg/cm	12.0-14.0 Kg/cm	22.0-26.0 Kg/cm	26.0-30.0 Kg/cm	-
Shore Hardness	D-2240	30-35 (Scale A)	40-50 (Scale A)	50-55 (Scale A)	55-60 (Scale A)	60-70 (Scale A)	80-85 (Scale A)	85-90 (Scale A)	83-86 (D) (Scale A)

*Note: All data provided are typical ranges for reference only. Actual values may vary slightly depending on factors such as specific printer models, resin formulations, part geometries, and operational settings. As a result, the information is not legally binding or certified.

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Why Choose Digital Photopolymer 3D Printing

Unmatched Precision for Intricate Details

With a minimum feature size of just 0.1mm, it effortlessly reproduces complex structures like hollowed jewelry patterns and micro-porous medical stents. Its surface roughness reaches Ra≤0.8μm, eliminating the need for secondary polishing—critical for applications demanding smooth, ready-to-use finishes.

Faster Turnaround for Complex Parts

For 10cm³ complex models, printing time is 30%-50% shorter than SLA. For example, a jewelry ring mold that takes 4 hours with traditional SLA can be completed in just 2.5 hours using digital photopolymer technology, accelerating production timelines significantly.

Versatile Materials for Diverse Needs

It supports a wide range of photopolymers, including rigid, flexible, and biocompatible options. This flexibility enables applications from skin-contact products (using silicone-based resins) to high-temperature industrial components, adapting seamlessly to healthcare, jewelry, and manufacturing sectors.

Cost-Effective for Small-Batch Production

For 10-500 units, it outperforms traditional mold-making in affordability. Single-part costs are 20%-40% lower than CNC machining. For instance, a small-batch industrial part costs ¥20,000 via 3D printing, compared to ¥50,000 for mold development—slashing upfront expenses drastically.

Key Applications of 3D Printed Digital Photopolymer Parts

Digital photopolymer enables the production of highly detailed prototypes and functional parts with varying mechanical properties, making it suitable for diverse industries.

Medical & Healthcare

Custom dental models (with precision of ±0.05mm, perfectly matching patients’ oral data) and surgical guides (made of biocompatible materials, sterilizable for repeated use).

Jewelry Industry

Direct printing of wax patterns, eliminating the mold-turning step in traditional lost-wax casting, with 98% accuracy in replicating pattern details.

Industrial Design

Prototypes of precision parts, such as micro gears and drone components, with layer thickness at the 5μm level, meeting assembly tolerance requirements.

Consumer Electronics

Personalized accessories like earphone cases and smartwatch straps, supporting multi-color material composite printing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is digital photopolymer printing suitable for end-use parts?webadmin2025-07-24T08:09:22+00:00

Is digital photopolymer printing suitable for end-use parts?

Digital photopolymer printing has mainly been used for prototyping. It’s great for quickly turning designs into detailed, precise models—perfect for checking how a part looks, fits, or works early in development, like testing the shape of a new phone case or a small mechanical component.

But lately, it’s starting to be used more for end-use parts, too. For example, some dental clinics now use it to print custom aligners that patients wear directly. Small electronics brands also make limited runs of unique headphone shells this way, since the technology handles fine details well and works for small batches.

Can digital photopolymer parts be post-processed?webadmin2025-07-24T08:15:31+00:00

Can digital photopolymer parts be post-processed?

Yes, digital photopolymer parts can undergo a range of post-processing steps, some essential to ensure functionality and quality, others optional to refine appearance or performance based on specific needs.

The necessary post-processing steps typically involve removing the support structure – for standard resins, this can be achieved through manual operation; for the soluble support structures used in polyjet printing, it can be done through water dissolution – to enable the part to detach from the build platform. The part also needs to be thoroughly cleaned to remove any un-solidified resin residues, otherwise these residues may damage the surface finish or cause adhesion problems. Subsequently, a final ultraviolet curing step is required to fully harden the material and lock in its mechanical properties. These steps are the fundamental steps for preparing the part for use (whether as a prototype or a final-use component).

Optional post-processing, on the other hand, depends on the application. For instance, sanding or polishing can smooth surfaces for a glossy finish, while painting or dyeing adds color customization. Coatings might be applied to enhance UV resistance or chemical durability, and for parts needing extra strength, specialized treatments can further reinforce material properties. However, the operation needs to be carried out according to the material characteristics. For instance, softer resins require gentler and more precise operations.

For a closer look at all available techniques, check out our additive post-processing page.

How durable are digital photopolymer parts?webadmin2025-07-24T08:21:34+00:00

How durable are digital photopolymer parts?

When it comes to the durability of digital photopolymer parts, we’ve found it really depends on how you plan to use them—and we’ve tailored our approach to match real-world needs.

In our experience, these parts hold up surprisingly well for their intended roles, but they’re not designed to be all-purpose workhorses. Our standard rigid resins, for example, stand up to the daily knocks of prototype testing—like repeated assembly checks for a new electronics enclosure or the light mechanical stress of a small tool fixture. They won’t crack easily under moderate pressure, which is why we often recommend them for low-volume functional parts where precision matters more than heavy-duty resilience.

Flexible resins, on the other hand, handle bending and light stretching nicely—we’ve seen them work great for custom gaskets or wearable components that need to fit snugly without losing shape. But push them too hard—say, constant high-tension flexing or exposure to extreme heat (over 80°C for most grades)—and you might start to see fatigue over time.

We’re upfront about their limits, though. Prolonged sunlight? Most standard resins will fade or get brittle after a few months, which is why we suggest UV-stabilized coatings for outdoor prototypes. Harsh chemicals? We always check the resin specs first—some hold up to mild solvents, but strong cleaners can eat away at the surface. That’s why we work with clients to pick the right resin early: if a part needs to withstand engine oils or hospital-grade disinfectants, we’ll switch to our specialized high-resistance formulas, even if they cost a bit more.

We’ve found digital photopolymer parts thrive in controlled, low-stress environments—think indoor prototypes, custom medical tools, or small-batch consumer goods. They’re durable enough to do the job they’re designed for, and we help clients balance that with realistic expectations. For a deeper dive into matching resin durability to your project, feel free to chat with our team.

Can digital photopolymer parts have varying hardness?webadmin2025-07-24T07:48:11+00:00

Can digital photopolymer parts have varying hardness?

Absolutely! Digital photopolymer 3D printing excels at producing parts with tailored hardness, and our flexible to semi-rigid resins’ typical hardness range from Shore A 30-95 (e.g., rubber-like gaskets to firm casings), while rigid resins fall in the Shore D 83-86 range, making them ideal for structural components comparable to ABS or PC plastics.

Advanced resin chemistries and precision printing parameters (e.g., UV exposure, layer thickness) enable precise control over crosslink density, allowing hardness customization for specific applications—from soft-touch grips to load-bearing parts.

(Note: Actual values may vary based on printer model, resin type, and post-processing.)

What color options are available?webadmin2025-07-24T07:53:30+00:00

What color options are available?

We offer standard choices: clear/translucent, white, and black. These are readily available and ideal for applications where a classic, versatile palette suffices—from functional prototypes to basic end-use parts.
But if your projects require specific or custom colors, we’re happy to accommodate tailored requests. Simply share your desired color codes (such as Pantone, RAL, or RGB values) in your inquiry, and our team will work with you to discuss feasibility, material compatibility, and any adjustments needed to achieve the exact apperance color you’re looking for.

What 3D printing technologies are compatible with digital photopolymer?webadmin2025-07-24T08:05:57+00:00

What 3D printing technologies are compatible with digital photopolymer?

Digital photopolymer 3D printing is compatible with several technologies, and in our workflow, PolyJet and SLA stand as the primary ones we use—their reliable performance across diverse applications makes them our go-to choices:

PolyJet operates by spraying tiny droplets of liquid photopolymer resin onto the build platform, with each layer instantly cured by ultraviolet light. This technology excels at printing parts that involve multiple materials or intricate details, making it perfect for complex prototypes where precise color or hardness variations are required. That said, it does come with relatively higher costs.

On the other hand, SLA (Stereolithography) is the most widely used and cost-effective option in our product line. Its working principle is to use ultraviolet laser to solidify the liquid photosensitive resin layer by layer, achieving a good balance between speed and precision. It is particularly suitable for manufacturing smooth and functional components, whether of medium size or larger sizes.

Other compatible technologies include DLP (Digital Light Processing) and CDLP (Continuous Digital Light Processing). These utilize digital light sources for resin curing and are often deployed in specific scenarios that demand ultra-fast printing or extremely fine detail reproduction.

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