We're excited to announce the introduction of PA 2200 CarbonReduced Performance, the new sustainable SLS 3D Printing material. Continue reading
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3D printing with Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)
What is Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) prototyping?
Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) is an additive manufacturing technology for 3D printing parts with complex geometries. It is suitable for both visual models and functional prototypes.
We 3D print SLS prototype parts in a range of sizes and offer a choice of production speeds and finishing options. Unlike other prototyping bureaus, we provide an overnight production speed for all 3D Printing, including SLS).
What is the SLS build process?
SLS parts are built, layer by layer from the bottom up, with a computer-controlled laser beam fusing fine white plastic powder. Each new layer is fused to the layer beneath. Where necessary, support structures are also printed to prevent overhanging or other features from distorting during the build process. After the part is built, the support structures are removed, the part is cleaned, and any additional finishing processes applied.
When is SLS used for prototyping?
SLS is accurate and is used to 3D print parts for concept models, visual models for presentations, and functional prototypes for testing or usability trials. SLS parts benefit from high strength and stiffness, so they are often used for simulating components that will ultimately be injection moulded.
In some cases, SLS is economical for producing end-use parts, depending on the finish applied, operating environment and anticipated usage.
SLS prototyping capabilities
We use P1 SLS machines manufactured by EOS GmbH because these are among the most technically advanced and versatile plastic 3D printers in the world. They produce high-quality, high-accuracy parts from Matrix PA12 CR material (a sustainable material) in layers of 0.1mm. Build speed is relatively fast, even with highly complex geometries. The build volume on our machines is up to 194 x 242 x 320 mm (Z axis).
For more information about the SLS machine and material, download our material datasheet and process guide.
Characteristics of SLS 3D printed parts
SLS parts have high strength, stiffness and long-term dimensional stability thanks to the properties of the Matrix PA12 CR material and the good powder fusion. Consequently, detailed parts can be used in visual models, functional prototypes or finished products. Abrasion resistance is good, so SLS 3D printed mechanisms can have parts moving relative to each other.
SLS parts printed from Matrix PA12 CR have good chemical resistance and are biocompatible according to EN ISO 10993-1 and USP/level VI/121 °C for use in medical applications. The material is also approved for food contact in compliance with the EU plastics directive 2002/72/EC.
Matrix PA12 CR combines a heaviliy reduced CO2e footprint with the technical properties of PA 2200.
Finishing options for SLS 3D printed parts
After cleaning and visual inspection, SLS printed parts can be lacquered to seal the surfaces, coloured, a blackout/RFI/EMC coating can be applied to internal surfaces, and secondary assembly operations can be carried out such as fitting threaded inserts.
See our Finishing options page for further details.
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Talk to us
Do you need SLS 3D printed prototype parts? Talk to us about your project on 01763 249760 or complete the enquiry form below to request a quote.
Model Making & Workshop team
Our model making and AP/AM workshop team deliver high-quality 3D printed and vacuum cast prototype parts. We offer next day dispatch on SLS, SLA, Polyjet and DLP. Request a quote for your next prototype project.
Tim Rowell
Quality & Operations Manager
Gemma Zouher-Lewis
RP Team Leader
Jordan Cooney
RP Technician
Nick Crown
RP Technician
Chris Johnson
RP Technician
Hemal Maisuria
RP Technician
Leon Willis
Workshop Assistant/Delivery Driver
Adam Sharkey
3D Print Team Leader
Alex Barnett
Senior RP Technician
Jan Mlynarcik
3D Print CAD Technician
Luke Webb
RP 3D Printing CAD Technician