Prototyping guide to DLP

What is DLP?

3D printing technology DLP, is ideal for functional prototyping and very low volume production. It delivers an ultra-high print speed along with quality and accuracy meaning prototype parts can be printed quickly without affecting quality and accuracy.

Did you know?

Because Figure 4 parts can be printed so quickly, Prototype Projects can sometimes deliver same day dispatch (depending on the part).

How does DLP work?

Prototype parts printed using SLA, SLS and FDM are printed from the printing bed downwards (-Z direction). In contrast, DLP parts are printed in a reverse; they are drawn upwards (+Z direction) from the resin bed. This has two main benefits. Firstly, the amount of resin required to sit within the bed is very small, so cost of running is reduced. Secondly, the DLP (digital light projector) image is of the whole sliced layer, so the speed of print of each layer is dramatically increased over other print methods.

When should DLP be used?

A range of materials is available for DLP making it a versatile 3D printing solution.

It is ideal for:

Functional prototyping and concept models
Investment casting jewellery patterns
End-use durable plastic parts
Jigs and fixtures
Moulds and master patterns

What are the benefits of DLP?

As well as being ideal for low volume production, DLP offers:

Fast printing times
Elimination of tooling
Range of materials

Figure 4 materials

There are a number of materials available for DLP. Prototype Projects stocks the following materials:

ELAST-BLK 10: a rubber-like material for accelerated designing and prototyping of elastomeric products
FLEX-BLK 10: a flexible material for the production of exceptionally durable polypropylene-like black parts
RGD-GRY 10: a rigid material which is grey in colour, with a high build speed
RGD-GRY 15: a durable and rigid grey material

DLP texturing

As with SLS and SLA prototype parts, it is possible to apply surface texturing to DLP at the time of printing.

Ready to start your next prototype project?

Prototype Projects is a UK-based prototyping bureau delivering high quality prototype parts in fast turnaround times.

Our next day dispatch service is available for SLA, SLS, FDM, Polyjet and DLP 3D printed parts. We also offer a dyeing service for SLS prototype parts, as well as a texturing service for SLS and SLA parts.