SLS Rapid Prototyping: How to Use SLS for Various Industries and Applications Manufacturers, engineers, and designers looking to speed up their product development process will find industrial 3D printing to be cost-effective. Although there are many types of additive manufacturing technologies these days, selective laser sintering (SLS) remains sought-after for making functional prototypes and end-use parts, thanks to its use of polymer powder. SLS 3D printing delivers results with excellent mechanical properties similar to injection-molded parts, and given its repeatability and mature process, it can be a faster and cost-effective alternative to conventional manufacturing technologies for making components for various applications and industries. How selective laser sintering works SLS is a powder-based additive manufacturing technology that relies on a high-powered laser to fuse powdered PA 12 (nylon) one layer at a time. This printing process makes it ideal for building objects with mechanical joints, including living hinges and snap fits. Additionally, its range of platform sizes and materials makes it suitable for end-use products that require heat resistance and strength, particularly in aerospace and automotive applications. Why use SLS? One of the benefits of SLS 3D printing is its self-supporting nature. It doesn’t require support structures and can craft complex parts with challenging geometries. This means it can be used to produce monolithic assemblies and interior components. SLS is also the best 3D printing technology to build robust plastic parts cost-effectively and quickly. SLS components are stronger and can rival the quality of injection-molded ones, making them widely used in automotive and aerospace applications.
More reasons to choose SLS SLS 3D printing delivers parts that can withstand environmental conditions and wear and tear, allowing manufacturers to produce fewer parts for testing or custom needs. This is particularly beneficial in the aerospace industry, which is known to use selective laser sintering to make internal interiors for aircraft, such as cabin components. Additionally, flame-retardant nylon made it easier to craft video surveillance shields for in-flight testing. SLS can also be used for: ● Functional proof-of-concept or fit-and-form models, engineering design verification, wind tunnel testing, and product performance tests ● Military hardware, homeland security, healthcare, medical, aerospace hardware, and electronics connectors and packaging ● Part consolidation exercises, complex plastic parts, end-use short-run components ● Investment casting patterns, jigs, tools, and fixtures Is SLS the right choice for your project? Talk to the experts at HLH Proto to see if SLS 3D printing is right for your requirements. HLH Proto is a one-stop source for all your prototyping and low-volume end-use manufacturing needs. Get a quote on their website and get started today. .