SLS is a powder-bed additive manufacturing process that uses a high-powered laser to fuse thermoplastic powder into solid 3D parts. This selective laser sintering 3D printing method is widely used for both prototyping and production because it produces strong, functional components without support structures.
The process is similar to stereolithography (SLA) in that it uses a laser to form parts layer by layer. However, SLS 3D printing uses powdered material instead of liquid resin. Like HP Multi Jet Fusion (MJF), SLS allows parts to be nested throughout the build chamber, enabling multiple components to be produced in a single build.
Parts manufactured using rapid prototyping typically use nylon materials such as PA11, PA12, and glass-filled nylon. Because of the specialized equipment and powder handling systems required, SLS printers are primarily used by industrial manufacturers and SLS 3D printing service providers.
For more than two decades, SLS has been one of the most widely used additive manufacturing processes for durable production components. The Technology House (TTH) has the capabilities to manufacture both prototypes and production parts through professional selective laser sintering services.
From design to prototype and production, our team of engineers is ready to help bring your idea to life using selective laser sintering services and advanced additive manufacturing technologies.
The most common materials used in selective laser sintering 3D printing are nylon-based thermoplastics. These materials provide excellent strength, durability, and chemical resistance.
Common materials include:
While these materials meet the needs of most applications, additional materials may be available depending on project requirements. Your project manager can help determine the best option for your application.
There are several industrial selective laser sintering machines available, most commonly produced by manufacturers such as 3D Systems and EOS, both long-standing leaders in additive manufacturing equipment.
These systems offer varying build volumes depending on the materials used. Larger platforms around 19” × 19” × 17” (480 × 480 × 430 mm) are typically used for Nylon PA12 parts, while smaller build chambers around 10.6” × 12.6” × 16” (270 × 320 × 410 mm) are commonly used for specialized materials such as glass-filled nylon, TPU, and PA11.
These machines are well-suited for producing large components or batch builds containing multiple smaller parts.
Our experts have a proven history of providing innovative solutions at every stage of product development—from product design through production.
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