OVERVIEW OF THE APPLICATION OF STEREOLITHOGRAPHY IN ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING OF INJECTION MOLDING TOOL INSERTS

Abstract

This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the application of Stereolithography (SLA) in the additive manufacturing of mold inserts. It explores the advantages and limitations of using the SLA technology for producing high-precision, intricate mold inserts compared to traditional manufacturing methods. Key benefits such as reduced lead times, cost-effectiveness for small production runs, and enhanced design flexibility are discussed. The paper also addresses the challenges related to material properties, thermal stability, and durability of SLA-produced inserts. Additionally, advancements in SLA materials and post-processing techniques are reviewed to showcase improvements in mechanical and thermal properties. The findings underscore the potential of SLA technology to revolutionize mold manufacturing, offering significant benefits in rapid prototyping and small to medium-scale production environments.