Our unique network of plastic 3D printing includes some of the most advanced and versatile prototyping service providers. SLS is one of the most mature technology out there and we are able to offer you the best pricing thanks to our direct collaboration with core partners.
✓ Excellent mechanical strength
✓ Complex shapes and features
✓ Great for functional parts
✓ Feasible low volume production
✓ Competitive pricing
SLS capability overview
| SLS | |
|---|---|
| Maximum build size (L x W x H) |
400 x 400 x 400 mm
In some cases, we can use fabrication to join multiple parts
|
| Standard lead time | 6 – 8 days |
| Dimensional accuracy | ± 0.5% with a lower limit on ± 0.3 mm |
| Minimal wall thickness |
0.7 mm
1.0 mm (recommended for structural areas)
|
| Layer height | 100 μm |
When to use SLS
- Excellent mechanical strength for functional prototypes
- Good for assemblies, jigs, living hinges, snap fits and pin hinges.
- Additional polishing can be used to improve surface finish
- Can be used to replace metal components in some cases
- Low-volume production up to 300 units could be economical
Typical material used in SLS is Nylon (PA12) or Glass-filled Nylon (PA12GF). Nylon has excellent physical properties and suitable for end-use applications. Glass-filled Nylon has increased stiffness and thermal stability than standard nylon.
Available materials for SLS
| Types | General considerations |
|---|---|
| PA12 | Standard Nylon, white by default, can be dyed in any colour |
| PA12GF | Reinforced with glass-fiber, higher stiffness and thermal stability, usually grey |
Post-processing service for SLS
| Service |
|---|
| Smooth polishing |
| Dye / paint to RAL colour |
| Bead blasting |
| Electroplating |
| Additional machining and inserts |
General features of 3D printing technologies
| SLA | MJF | FDM | SLS | MJP/PolyJet | DMLS/SLM | LSF | WAAM | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accuracy & detail | ★★★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★ |
| Surface finish | ★★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★ |
| Complex geometry | ★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★ |
| Mechanical strength | ★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★★★★★ | ★★★★★★★ | ★★★★★★★ |
| Relative cost | ■■ | ■■■ | ■ | ■■■ | ■■■■ | ■■■■■■ | ■■■■■■■■ | ■■■■■■ |
*The table assume typical material used in respective technology at comparable sizes (except for LSF and WAAM which are only suitable for very large parts).
Post-processing may be used to improve surface finish significantly.