For years, Vision Miner has specialized in high-temperature FDM/FFF 3D printing—engineering-grade thermoplastics like PEEK, ULTEM, PPSU, and other performance polymers. We even expanded into SLS (Selective Laser Sintering) for powdered polymer printing. But one technology we avoided? SLA (Stereolithography) 3D printing—until now.
So, why didn’t we sell SLA before? And what changed?
Let’s break it down.
The Old SLA: Messy, Expensive, and Limited
Back when we started, SLA printing had major downsides:
✔️ Limited Material Selection – You had basic ABS-like or PLA-like resins with few high-performance options.
✔️ Messy and Hazardous – Resin handling required gloves, IPA baths, and careful post-processing.
✔️ Small Build Volumes – Early consumer SLA printers were tiny and slow.
✔️ Unreliable Results – Prints failed frequently, supports left ugly marks, and post-processing was a pain.
✔️ High Costs – Resin was expensive, and industrial SLA machines started in the six-figure range.
For us, it wasn’t worth the hassle.
SLA Has Leveled Up – Here’s What Changed
Fast forward to 2025, and SLA is finally ready for professionals. Here’s why we’re adding it to our lineup:
✅ Bigger, Faster, More Affordable – You can now get 8K SLA resolution for under $1,000, with build volumes that rival FDM printers.
✅ Industrial-Grade Resins – Brands like Formlabs have developed high-temp, rigid, and specialty resins (UL94 V-0 flame-retardant, glass-filled, and even biocompatible materials).
✅ Automation & Ease of Use – Modern SLA printers auto-fill resin tanks, have heated chambers, and include wash & cure stations for clean, efficient workflows.
✅ Production-Ready – SLA now enables small-batch manufacturing, high-detail prototyping, and functional end-use parts without the pain of FDM tuning or the cost of SLS.
✅ Minimal Learning Curve – Unlike FDM, which requires tuning, maintenance, and calibration, SLA is push-button simple. Even complete beginners can start printing high-quality parts in minutes.
Who Should Consider SLA 3D Printing?
If you need:
🔹 Ultra-fine detail and smooth surfaces – No more layer lines.
🔹 Functional prototypes and production parts – SLA resins now rival traditional thermoplastics.
🔹 A hassle-free, scalable workflow – No nozzle clogs, no belt tensioning, no warping.
Whether you’re an engineer, a product designer, a manufacturer, or just looking for high-quality prints with minimal setup, SLA has never been a better option.
Ready to Upgrade Your Printing Game?
Vision Miner is now offering select SLA printers and resins—carefully tested and optimized for professionals. If you’re serious about reliable, production-ready 3D printing, we’ve got the tools you need.
Shop SLA Printers & Resins Now → https://VisionMiner.com/formlabs
Need Help Choosing the Right Printer? Our team specializes in real-world applications—not just specs on paper. Contact us and we’ll help you pick the best printer for your workflow.
We’re proud to carry the entire Formlabs ecosystem at VisionMiner.com. Not sure if it’s the right fit? Give us a call or email, and we’ll help you find the perfect solution for your business, workshop, or production needs.
833-774-6863
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About Vision Miner
At Vision Miner, we’re not just here to sell you 3D printers and scanners—we’re here to support you with tools that actually get the job done. Our focus is on high-temp, industrial-grade equipment that can handle materials like ABS, PEEK, PEKK, and Ultem, so you can create durable, top-quality parts for serious applications.
Check out our website at https://www.visionminer.com -- we've got a full line-up of industrial 3D printers, professional 3D scanners, as well as tools and accessories like our Nano Polymer adhesive. When it's all said and done, though, we prioritize building strong relationships with our customers. When you call us, you won’t get a corporate receptionist -- our team is here speak with you and determine what the right equipment for your project REALLY is -- even if we don't sell it.
00:00 Introduction
00:29 Why didn't we offer SLA, DLP, etc before now?
01:46 Material Selection: What sets Formlabs apart?
02:46 History of engineering / high-temp SLA availability
03:33 Challenges with other SLA machines
04:45 How Tough are these materials, really?
05:43 FDM vs SLS vs SLA
06:18 How easy is Formlabs?
07:47 What is SLA best for?
09:22 Challenges with SLA? Nothing is perfect...
12:36 Post Processing Photopolymer Resin Parts?