High-Quality
Hybrid PhotoSynthesis
Parts
Parts in 3 to 5 days.
Hybrid PhotoSynthesis (HPS) is used for:
- Part Consolidation
- High Detail and Excellent Surface Finish
- Isotropic Mechanical Properties
Quality Matters | AS9100D Certified, ISO 9001:2015, ISO 13485:2016, & ITAR Registered
* Not all locations have all certifications and registrations. Parts requiring these will be made at facilities with the correct certifications and registrations.
Table of Contents
What is Hybrid PhotoSynthesis?
Hybrid Photosynthesis (HPS) is a 3D printing technique that combines two popular methods: digital light processing (DLP) and stereolithography (SLA). DLP uses a light projector to cure a resin layer by layer, while SLA employs a laser to harden the resin. Hybrid Photosynthesis uses both techniques to create highly detailed and accurate 3D models.
This technology is ideal for creating intricate and complex models with high detail. Hybrid Photosynthesis is already being utilized in various industries, including healthcare, automotive, and aerospace. In healthcare, this technology is used to create anatomical models that aid in surgical planning and implant design. In the automotive industry, it is used to make car product prototypes before mass production. Similarly, in the aerospace industry, it is used to create detailed models of aircraft parts before they are produced on a large scale.
The use of Hybrid Photosynthesis is a game-changer in the 3D printing industry. By utilizing the strengths of both DLP and SLA techniques, this technology can produce a high-quality finished product that is both precise and intricate.
How does Hybrid PhotoSynthesis work?
Our additive manufacturing (AM) process begins with the upload of your CAD file by our proficient technicians into the machine. Our technicians first decide on a part orientation to maximize part quality and limit supports. After that is finished, they will send the component with supports to the machine’s platform to be sliced layer by layer and translated into instructions for our machine. The HPS machine employs a photochemical process that combines digital light processing and stereolithography. The machine projects light through an oxygen-permeable membrane into a UV-curable resin and uses a laser for precise details. This step is repeated until the build is complete.
Once the build is complete, our proficient technicians remove the platform manually from the Hybrid PhotoSynthesis machine and retrieve the parts. The parts undergo solvent cleaning and UV cycle curing to solidify the outer surface of the component. Finally, the finished details are moved to the finishing department for further processing.
Advantages to Hybrid PhotoSynthesis
Hybrid PhotoSynthesis technology has revolutionized the way products are designed and manufactured. The following are a few of the advantages of laser sintering:
- Open platform for materials.
- Materials with excellent mechanical properties.
- Extremely fine surface finishes.
Disadvantages to Hybrid PhotoSynthesis
While there are a lot of advantages to HybridPhotosynthesis, there are also some disadvantages to consider:
- Supports needed.
Hybrid PhotoSynthesis at Prototek
OEM:
Axtra3D
Max Build Area:
9.5 x 5.25 x 19.25 in
Lead Time:
3 – 5 Days
Material:
Loctite3D 3843, S-PRO | Spot A, Ultracur3D 3280
Tolerances:
± 0.005 in for the first inch and ± 0.0015 in for each additional inch
Layer Thickness:
Standard Resolution: 0.004 in
Fine Resolution: 0.002 in
Prototek's Materials
Material
Description
Characteristics
More Information
It’s a semi-flexible resin with moderate temperature resistance up to HDT60, high impact strength, and versatility for various applications. This material is also a high-strength engineering plastic with exceptional impact resistance and a superior surface finish.
- Black
- High Detail/High Resolution
- High Strength
- Impact Resistant
This material specializes in prototyping and functional parts, boasting exceptional toughness, impact, fracture resistance, high resolution, and minimal shrinkage for high-performance applications.
- Grey
- High Detail/High Resolution
It is a high-performance photopolymer resin developed for 3D printing applications like HPS. Its excellent mechanical properties include high strength, toughness, and rigidity, making it ideal for producing functional parts.
- White
- High Detail/High Resolution
- High Strength
- Rigid
Design Recommendations
Firstly, it is essential to design parts with adequate support structures to prevent them from collapsing during the HPS printing process. These support structures should be easy to remove after printing and not cause damage to the final part. The part’s orientation during printing is also crucial, as it can affect the surface quality and accuracy of the final product.
Additionally, designers should select a resin for HPS that best suits the intended application of the part, considering factors such as strength, flexibility, and resistance to heat and chemicals. Finally, ensuring the design files are correctly formatted and error-free is essential to avoid any issues during the Hybrid PhotoSynthesis printing process.
| Feature | Measurement | |
|---|---|---|
|
|
Connecting & Moving Parts |
0.03 in |
|
|
Escape Holes |
0.04 in |
|
|
Embossing & Engraving |
Width: 0.016 in |
|
|
Holes & Openings |
0.02 in |
|
|
Horizontal Spans |
0.08 in |
|
|
Minimum Features |
0.008 in |
|
|
Pin Diameter |
0.03 in |
|
|
Supports & Overhangs |
Base Supports Otherwise 45° |
|
|
Walls (Supported) |
0.02 in |
|
|
Walls (Unsupported) |
0.04 in |
| Feature | Measurement | |
|---|---|---|
|
|
Connecting & Moving Parts |
0.7 mm |
|
|
Escape Holes |
1 mm |
|
|
Embossing & Engraving |
Width: 0.4 mm |
|
|
Holes & Openings |
0.5 mm |
|
|
Horizontal Spans |
2 mm |
|
|
Minimum Features |
0.2 mm |
|
|
Pin Diameter |
0.7 mm |
|
|
Supports & Overhangs |
Base Support Otherwise 45° |
|
|
Walls (Supported) |
0.5 mm |
|
|
Walls (Unsupported) |
1 mm |
Hybrid PhotoSynthesis Finishes
Finishing techniques can help improve the final result. Sanding the surface of the printed object can provide a smoother texture, remove visible lines, and support structure nubs. A clear coat can create a smooth surface while protecting the HPS object from wear and tear. Priming prepares the object’s surface for painting and helps the paint adhere better. Painting the object adds color and hides any remaining visible lines while improving the object’s appearance. Depending on the desired outcome, a combination of these techniques can be used—finishing techniques for Hybrid PhotoSynthesis help to produce visually appealing finished products.
Why choose Prototek for your next Hybrid PhotoSynthesis project?
Prototek is the perfect choice for your next Hybrid PhotoSynthesis project. We have extensive experience in 3D printing services and a team of highly skilled engineers who can assist you with bringing your project to life. Our state-of-the-art HPS equipment guarantees precision and accuracy, ensuring that we produce your project promptly and cost-effectively. At Prototek, we are committed to providing high-quality services, and we guarantee that your end product will meet or exceed your expectations. Our personalized customer service ensures that we meet all your unique project requirements. By choosing Prototek, you can have confidence that your project is in good hands, and our expertise and commitment to excellence will make your decision an intelligent one.
