What does SLS mean in 3D printing?
Selective laser sintering
Selective laser sintering (SLS) 3D printing is trusted by engineers and manufacturers across different industries for its ability to produce strong, functional parts.
How much does an SLS printer cost?
But why choose SLS over other technologies?
| 3D Printer | Max. Build Volume (mm) | Market Price |
|---|---|---|
| Sintratec S2 | ⌀160 x 400 mm | From $30,000 |
| Sharebot SnowWhite 2 | 100 X 100 X 100 | From $40,000 |
| Wematter Gravity | 300 x 300 x 300 | From $120,000 |
| XYZprinting MfgPro230 xS | 230 x 230 x 230 | From $69,900 |
How does a SLS printer work?
How SLS 3D Printing Works. Schematic of the selective laser sintering process. SLS 3D printing uses a high power laser to sinter small particles of polymer powder into a solid structure based on a 3D model. Printing: The powder is dispersed in a thin layer on top of a platform inside of the build chamber.
Where is SLS printing used?
Its most common application is in prototype parts early in the design cycle such as for investment casting patterns, automotive hardware, and wind tunnel models. SLS is also increasingly being used in limited-run manufacturing to produce end-use parts for aerospace, military, medical, and electronics hardware.
How long does SLS printing take?
This can take a considerable amount of time (up to 12 hours). The parts are then cleaned with compressed air or other blasting media and are ready to use or further post process. The remaining unsintered powder is collected and can be reused (SLA powder is only 50% recyclable though).
What material does a SLS or SLA printer use?
nylon
SLS 3D Printing Materials The most common material for selective laser sintering is nylon, a highly capable engineering thermoplastic for both functional prototyping and end-use production. Nylon is ideal for complex assemblies and durable parts with high environmental stability.
What is SLS method?
Selective laser sintering (SLS) is an additive manufacturing (AM) technique that uses a laser as the power source to sinter powdered material (typically nylon or polyamide), aiming the laser automatically at points in space defined by a 3D model, binding the material together to create a solid structure.
What is SLS printing used for?
SLS 3D Printing is used for both prototyping of functional polymer components and for small production runs, as it offers a very high design freedom, high accuracy and produces parts with good and consistent mechanical properties, unlike FDM or SLA.