SLS 3D Printing

Selective Laser Sintering or SLS is an industrial 3D printing technology with builds accurate and durable parts from nylon (PA 12) materials. SLS is used extensively for prototypes and production. Similar to other technologies it builds parts layer by layer from a powder material. Due to the powder surrounding the part as it is built SLS can realise overhangs and complex features without support structures.

There are a range of material options for SLS but at HLH we run either a PA 12 material or a PA 12 glass filled.

Advantages of SLS

• Great for functional parts and prototypes
• Complex geometries
• Low volume production possible
• High strength material
• Fast and flexible

What is it used for?

SLS is a good choice for prototypes and low volume production where strength and function are important. SLS parts are increasingly used not just for prototypes but also in a great number of production applications in several industries. SLS produces accurate and repeatable parts and can realise complex geometries.

SLS design tips

SLS is an incredibly versatile process and allows a great range of possibilities for both prototypes and production. Anything you can do to keep the weight of the part down without compromising performance will help keep costs down. Any thick sections you hollow out will need escape holes for the excess material.

As SLS builds parts from a powder material it does have a rough surface finish and resolution is not as high as some other processes. This is worth remembering when designing any fine details or features.

You can download our SLS design tips here

To talk to us about your SLS for prototype or production get in touch with our team here