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Selective Laser Sintering, or SLS, is a rapid prototyping technology that turns 3D CAD data
into physical parts in a matter of hours. SLS is an additive manufacturing technology
that uses powdered Nylon 11, Nylon 12 and PEEK materials. Parts produced are light-weight,
highly durable, and both heat and chemical resistant, making SLS an excellent choice
for producing production parts without the expense of tooling.
The SLS process begins by splitting 3D CAD data into thin cross-sections or layers. The
data is then transferred to the SLS additive manufacturing equipment.
The machine then begins to create the first layer. After a leveling roller spreads a thin
layer of powdered material across the powder bed, a CO2 laser traces the cross-section
on the material. As the laser scans the surface, material is heated and fused together. Once
a single layer is complete, the powder bed is lowered to make room for the next layer.
More material is introduced from the powder cartridge and rolled out smooth, while unused
material is recycled. The process is repeated, building layer upon layer until the part is
complete. As SLS parts are built, they are encompassed
by unsintered powder which provides supplemental strength and eliminates the need for support
structures. Complex designs and assemblies once thought
impossible are now being redesigned with SLS as cost-effective integrated structures. Solid
Concepts manufactures parts utilizing nylon with property enhancing fillers to create
rugged SLS parts suitable for a variety of prototype and production applications. Typical
uses for SLS include: tools and fixtures, fuel tanks, flight rated components for unmanned
aerial vehicles, automotive designs, air-ducts, architectural models and artistic sculptures.
For more information, visit: http://www.solidconcepts.com/technologies/selective-laser-sintering-sls/