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Rapid Prototyping & Manufacturing TechnologiesFig. 3.7 Over support of SLA part3.1.4 Slicing (Layer thickness)A STL model used for RP contains a collection of planar triangular surfaces. Thesefaces define an approximate boundary for the object. Horizontal layers of equalthickness are produced while slicing to produce the outer boundary of the part –slice curve. Then void and solid region of the slice curve can be identified andproper fill pattern can be created for part filling. Typical layer thickness ofcommonly RP system is ranged from 0.05mm to 0.15mm.3.1.5 Part BuildingThe prototype can be built in the RP machine according to the toolpath andcontrol codes generated by the software of the RP system. By laser scanning,disposition, sintering, etc and under limited working envelope with closedcontrol of the processing environment the machine will start the build at thebottom layer. Subsequent layer is added after the completion of the previouslayer until the final layer was build. Hence, RP process also refers to layermanufacturing.3.1.6 Post processingOnce the last layer on the part has been built, the prototype need to haveundergo some post processing processes such as removal of support, cleaning,depowder, drain excessive resin, post curing in SLA, infiltration of resin/wax, etc.The post processing is aimed to clean and reinforce the green part.Additional surface finish procedures such as sanding, sand blasting, painting oreven electroplating are normally employed for cosmetic prototypes.Page 23IC Professional Training