An ultraviolet (UV) light is used to cure or harden

there is no structural support from the material during the build phase ,where support is given
from the unbound material support structures will often need to be added

. Resins are cured using a process of photo polymerisation or UV light, where the light is directed
across the surface of the resin with the use of motor controlled mirrors. Where the resin comes
in contact with the light, it cures or hardens

requires support structures and post curing for the part to be strong

The process of photo polymerisation can be achieved using a single laser and optics

caused defects such as air gaps, which need to be filled with resin in order to achieve a high
quality model.

Typical layer thickness for the process is 0.025 – 0.5mm

The Vat polymerisation process uses Plastics and Polymers.

Polymers: UV-curable Photopolymer resin

Resins: Visijet range (3D systems)

 High level of accuracy and good finish

 Relatively quick process

 Typically large build areas: objet 1000: 1000 x 800 x 500 and max model weight of 200
kg

Disadvantages:

 Relatively expensive

 Lengthly post processing time and reomval from resin

 Limited material use of photo-resins

 Often requires support structures and post curing for parts to be strong enough for
structural use

Vat photopolymerization types