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SLS 3D Printing Service

Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) 3D printing is an advanced additive manufacturing technology that creates solid, functional parts by sintering powdered material, typically nylon, with a high-powered laser. Unlike other 3D printing methods, SLS does not require support structures, allowing for the creation of complex geometries and interlocking components in a single build.

SLS 3D printed parts offer mechanical properties and strength comparable to injection-molded parts, making them highly durable and suitable for end-use applications. While SLS parts may have a rough surface and less fine detail, their accuracy and robustness make them ideal for functional prototypes and low-volume production in industries like aerospace, automotive, and medical devices.

Selective Laser Sintering is often compared to its counterpart, Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS), a popular metal 3D printing technology. Both processes use a laser to precisely fuse powdered material based on a 3D CAD file. While SLS specializes in nylon or polyamide powders, DMLS is used with metal powders, and both are commonly employed in prototyping and low-volume manufacturing.

  • Key Benefits of SLS 3D Printing

    Complex Geometries: SLS technology allows for the creation of intricate and interlocking designs without the need for support structures, enabling the production of complex geometries and functional assemblies in a single build.
     
    High Durability and Strength: SLS parts are known for their strength and durability, making them ideal for functional prototypes and end-use applications that require robust performance.
     
    Variety of High-Performance Materials:SLS offers a range of materials, including Engineering-grade thermoplastics nylon, glass-filled nylon, PEEK, PA-FR and flexible TPU, which provide excellent mechanical properties and chemical resistance.

  • Key Applications of SLS 3D Printing

    Functional Prototypes:Ideal for industries like automotive and aerospace, SLS is used to create durable prototypes that undergo rigorous mechanical and engineering testing and real-world use.
     
    Low-Volume Production:SLS is cost-effective for small to medium production runs, eliminating the need for expensive tooling and allowing for quick turnaround times.
     
    Complex Geometries:SLS excels at producing parts with intricate designs, such as lattice structures, internal channels, complex ducts, snap tits and living hinges that are challenging to manufacture using traditional methods.
     
    Customized Medical Devices:SLS technology is increasingly utilized in healthcare to create custom orthotics, prosthetics, and surgical guides, offering precise, patient-specific solutions.

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