Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) is an additive manufacturing technique used for 3D printing. This method is commonly employed in industrial settings to produce accurate parts using various nylon-based materials or thermoplastic polyurethane. It works by selectively sintering fine particles of polymer powder together to create the desired object, layer by layer, based on a 3D model.
How does SLS 3D printing function?
During the SLS 3D printing process, the SLS machine first preheats the bulk powder material in the powder bed, below its melting point.
This initial heating facilitates the laser’s task of raising the temperature of specific regions to the melting point.
A roller then applies a layer of polymer powder, and the laser selectively sinters the powder according to the 3D file.
The build platform is subsequently lowered, and a new layer of powder is applied. This layering process continues until the final part is fully created.
In comparison to other additive manufacturing techniques like Stereolithography (SLA), Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), or Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF), Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) has the advantage of not requiring support structures.
The powder itself acts as a self-supporting material, enabling the construction of intricate and complex geometries.