Masked Stereolithography Apparatus or MSLA printing is a modified form of SLA printing.
MSLA printing works on the same concept, with resins that are cured by exposure to ultraviolet light.
The structure of an MSLA 3D printer.
The structure of an MSLA 3D printer. Image source:structo3d.com
Image source:structo3d.com
Contents
How Do MSLA Printers Work?
If youre not familiar with SLA printers, a photosensitive resin is precisely cured using an ultraviolet light source.
Standard SLA printers use a laser whose beam is directed with a controlled mirror.
The use of an LCD masking system does mean that this process only really works for bottom-up printers.
As this is the popular style for home users, this is not much of an issue.
This means that the screen is a consumable item that you will eventually need to replace.
Modern MSLA printers have adapted to this issue by starting to use monochromatic LCD screens.
Monochrome LCD screens dont include a color filter.
This color filter blocks two-thirds of the backlight from getting through a clear screen.
This change means that the backlight doesnt need to be as bright to achieve the same or greater output.
Ultimately, this means that monochrome LCD screens last longer as the dimmer backlight does less damage.
A monochrome LCD screen is a no-brainer upgrade for an MSLA printer.
With an SLA printer, this is based on the diameter of the laser beam.
For an MSLA printer, it is based on the resolution of the LCD screen.
High resolution 4K and better screens are now becoming available; they are, however, quite expensive.
SLA printers also see a small advantage here.
MSLA printers are an almost downside-free upgrade over standard SLA printers.
The print time reduction is a huge bonus over any other form of additive manufacturing technology.
The prices for these are generally high, especially for larger models.
As prices continue to decrease over time, standard SLA printers will likely lose popularity.
Conclusion
Have you got a resin printer?
What made you choose an MSLA printer over an SLA one or vice versa?
Let us know down below.
