Selective Laser 3D Sintering: Technique, Applications and Advantages

Selective laser sintering, known as SLS for short, is an AM (additive manufacturing) technique that utilizes a special laser as its power source to nearly melt powdered materials (usually polyamide or nylon) and forming a structure as shown in a 3D computer aided design (CAD) model. Although the process is similar to selective laser melting and both are instances of the same concept, selective laser sintering differs from the other in technical detail. SLS is a relatively new technology which has found incredible use in low-volume production of spare parts and rapid prototyping.

As commercialization of 3D laser sintering technology continues, its production capabilities are also expanding and becoming more diverse.

How does Selective Laser 3D Sintering works?

The 3S selective laser sintering technology works with the help of additive manufacturing layer technology. It involves using a high-powered but precise beam of laser light, such as a carbon dioxide laser, to fuse small particles of glass, metal, ceramic or plastic powders into a solid mass with the expected 3-dimensional shape.

The laser beam is programmed to fuse the powdered material selectively by scanning the cross-sections of the 3D model on the surface of the powder bed. Once every cross-section is scanned the powder bed is lowered by one layer thickness and a new layer is applied on top of it. This entire process is repeated until, layer by layer, the entire 3D CAD model is created on the powder bed.

As opposed to similar laser techniques, the Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) 3D printing technique does not need a separate feeder for support material as the part being created is surrounded by raw powder throughout the process. This way, the device is able to create incredibly detailed and intricate designs.

Thanks to the expiring patents, today selective laser 3D sintering technique has become more affordable and increasingly commercialized.

What are the Applications of Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) 3D Printing?

The selective laser 3D sintering technique had found incredible applications within numerous industries. Thanks to growing affordability by widespread commercialization of the technology, growing numbers of industries are turning to SLS 3D printing.

The foremost application of selective laser 3D sintering is in creating prototypes. The SLS 3D printing technique has become an essential part of the design cycle for any prototype, including wind tunnel models, automotive components and investment casting patterns.

SLS 3D printing is being increasingly used for limited-run manufacturing to create components for medical, military, aerospace and electronic hardware. Additionally, Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) 3D printing is being increasingly used in rapid tool manufacturing, such as making fixtures and jigs.

Last, but not the least, SLS 3D printing has found incredible application in the field of art too.

What are the Advantages of Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) 3D Printing?

Let’s take a quick look at the express advantages of using the ultra-modern selective laser sintering (SLS) 3D printing:

• Create stronger and stiffer components

• Get good chemical resistance

• Create horizontal planes or tilted planes angled from 0 to 45 degrees

• Numerous finishing choices

• Create complex components with intricate interior design

Selective laser 3D sintering has come as a boon for various industries. Thanks to its efficiency and increased design abilities, today SLS 3D printing is being increasingly integrated into numerous industries, including automotive, aerospace, medical, etc.