For SLAs, what does post-curing typically involve?

Post-curing for Stereolithography Apparatus (SLA) is a critical step that typically involves rinsing the printed part to remove excess resin and then exposing it to ultraviolet (UV) light. This post-curing process is necessary to ensure that the resin fully polymerizes, enhancing the strength and durability of the final printed object.

During the initial printing phase, the resin undergoes partial curing as each layer is formed. However, to achieve optimal mechanical properties and to ensure that any uncured resin is eliminated, additional exposure to UV light is essential after the print has been rinsed. This significantly improves the part's performance characteristics, such as hardness and stability.

Rinsing removes any uncured material that may be present, preventing issues like tackiness or surface defects, while the UV exposure solidifies the part completely, finalizing the curing process. This method ensures that the printed object meets the desired specifications and functionality required for its intended application.