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SLS 3D printing

A laser sinters nylon powder into strong, complex parts — without support structures.

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SLS (selective laser sintering) is a 3D printing technology in which a laser fuses particles of nylon powder, layer by layer, into a solid part. The unfused powder surrounds the part during printing and supports it, so no support structures are needed.

This makes SLS suitable for parts with complex geometry — with internal channels, recesses and assemblies — and for small series, because several parts are arranged in the same build volume and printed at once.

We print on a Formlabs Fuse 1+ in PA12 and PA11 nylon, PA12 reinforced with glass (GF) or carbon (CF) fibres, TPU and polypropylene (PP). Up to 70% of the unused powder can be reused.

Part with blades made by powder sintering
SLS printing: a bladed part made by sintering nylon powder

Why SLS 3D printing

  • 01

    No support structures

    The powder holds the part during printing, enabling complex and enclosed geometries that are hard to produce with other technologies.

  • 02

    Functional parts

    PA11 and PA12 nylon is strong and tough, so SLS is used for functional prototypes and parts under load.

  • 03

    Small series

    Several parts in a single print make SLS well suited to small series of spare parts and prototypes.

Equipment for this service

All equipment and specifications

Quote

What we need for a quote

We prepare the quote based on the model and the part's purpose. The more information you send, the more accurate our proposal of technology and material.

  • A 3D model of the part (STL, STEP/STP, OBJ or IPT).
  • The part's purpose and the conditions it will be used in.
  • Quantity — for small series and single parts.
  • Your deadline, if it matters for the project.
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Frequently asked questions

Which materials do you use for SLS printing?

PA12, PA11, PA12 GF (glass-filled), PA12 CF (carbon-fibre reinforced), flexible TPU and polypropylene (PP). A short description of each is on the Materials page.

What is the maximum part size?

The build volume of the Fuse 1+ is 165 × 165 × 300 mm. For larger parts we will propose another solution — splitting into segments or a different technology.

What is the surface of SLS parts like?

The surface is matte and slightly rough, which is typical of sintered powder. If a smooth surface or the finest details matter, we will suggest SLA printing.

When is SLS a better choice than FDM or SLA?

When the part has complex geometry, needs to be functional and strong, or a small series is required. For larger and simpler parts FDM is often sufficient, and SLA for fine details.

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Send us a project description, sketch or 3D model — we will get back to you with a proposed technology and material.

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