| Stereolithography is a layer additive
rapid prototyping process based on the use of photopolymer liquid resins
which solidify when exposed to UV light. A software program transfers
the designer's 3-D CAD model into an electronic file for stereolithography
machines ('STL' format), composing the information into thin cross sections
or layers. A laser beam then traces each layer onto the surface of a vat
of photopolymer resin, building the part in repeated layers until a solid
replica of the original CAD model is completed.
DSM Somos has commercialised an entire range of ProtoFunctional
resins to respond to the needs of new product development and industrial
design. Among the newest ProtoFunctional materials to be launched are
ProtoTherm, WaterShed, Raven, WaterClear, and the Somos 9100 series which
allows material properties similar to polypropylene, with superior mechanical
memory.
Each family of Somos photopolymer epoxy resins is comprised of materials
specially formulated and optimised for the variety of stereolithography
platforms commercially available (Argon ion, Helium Cadmium and Solid
State laser systems).
DSM Somos (Delaware, US), focused on innovative rapid prototyping materials,
is a business unit of DSM Desotech, world leaders in the creation of UV
curable materials. DSM is a highly integrated group of companies with
worldwide interests in life-science products, performance materials and
chemicals. DSM recorded sales of EUR 8.1 billion in 2000 and employs a
total workforce of some 22,000, distributed in more than 200 operations
throughout the world.
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