PA2200 (Nylon 12)

Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) is an additive manufacturing technique used to create three-dimensional objects layer by layer. In SLS 3D printing, a high-powered laser selectively fuses powdered material, typically thermoplastics such as nylon or polyamide, into a solid structure based on a digital 3D model.

Here’s how it typically works:

1. Powder Deposition: A thin layer of powdered material is spread evenly across the build platform.

2. Laser Sintering: A computer-controlled laser selectively fuses the powdered material together, according to the cross-section of the object being printed. The laser sinters the powder particles, causing them to fuse and form a solid layer.

3. Layer-by-Layer Building: After the completion of each layer, the build platform is lowered, and a new layer of powder is spread on top. The process repeats until the entire object is formed.

4. Cooling and Finishing: Once printing is complete, the object is allowed to cool in the powder bed. After cooling, excess powder is removed, revealing the finished object. Post-processing steps such as sanding or surface treatments may be required for a smoother finish.

SLS offers several advantages, including the ability to produce complex geometries without the need for support structures, high material utilization rates, and the ability to use a wide range of materials. It is widely used in various industries, including aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and consumer goods.