Laser Sintering (SLS)
Polyamide laser sintering is an additive manufacturing (3D Printing) technology that allows obtaining functional parts with an excellent mechanical behaviour.
It is the most suitable technology for the direct manufacture of functional parts, prototypes and parts in series (Rapid Manufacturing) with mechanical characteristics similar to those of injected thermoplastics.
Initially, it began to be used for manufacturing rapid prototypes, but increasingly it is used to manufacture parts in series. The ability to produce pieces with a very complex geometry directly from digital CAD models has facilitated their growth and expansion worldwide.
At Ineo we have experience in the different applications of this additive manufacturing technology, since we have used it since its inception. The sintered laser is one of the reference technologies for the manufacture of parts.
We have polyamide laser sintering machines (SLS), with which it is possible to build large format pieces in short delivery time. Likewise, we offer a wide range of services to improve the design and finishing of the pieces.
What is laser sintering?
Selective laser sintering (SLS) is a 3D printing process for the manufacture of final parts, models and prototypes, which solidifies layer by layer powder of polyamide by means of a laser.
How does it work?
The manufacturing process starts at the machine in an inert chamber and preheated to 170ºC where a layer of powder material is deposited in the work zone. The laser selectively fuses each of the layers in said area and the platform moves downward for each layer sequentially.
After the manufacture, the pieces are extracted and are passed through a sandblasting process for cleaning, thus being finished.
Applications of laser sintering (SLS)
The parts manufactured by laser sintering are very suitable as functional parts and allow the application of different surface finishes. This technology allows high productivity and has applications such as:
- Functional pieces
- Manufacture of short series of pieces (low volume manufacturing)
- Models of dimensional and functional product validation
- Possibility of sintering sand to make cores or sand molds for foundry
- Manufacture of complex geometry parts
Advantages of laser sintering (SLS)
Some of its advantages are:
- Materials: PA12m, PA11, PP, PEEK, PE, PA + FV, PA + FC, elastomer, sand, metal
- Productivity: ability to manufacture many pieces at once quickly
- Possibility of application of different surface finishes
- Especially recommended for short series of small or medium pieces
- Complete freedom of design supports not required, the dust supports the piece
- Option to nest pieces (one inside the other)
Aspects to consider
Some considerations regarding the sintering laser:
- Possible deformations in very large pieces
- Slightly rough surface appearance
- A cooling and cleaning process of the parts is required
Materials for 3D SLS printing
Duraform PA12 |
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Very good mechanical and thermal behaviour (> 90ºC) and against solvents (hydrocarbons, alkalines). Sterilizable, FDA approved, biocompatible, long durability and aging resistance, can be machined, slightly rough surface. |
Flexibility
Temperature resistance
Impact Resistance
Duraform PA12 G |
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Polyamide 12 with glass charge. Very good mechanical and thermal behaviour (> 134ºC), against solvents (hydrocarbons, alkalines), long durability and resistance to aging, can be machined, slightly rough surface. |
Flexibility
Temperature resistance
Impact Resistance
Alumide – PA12 |
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Polyamide 12 with high rigidity aluminium and high thermal resistance, long durability and aging resistance, can be machined, good heat transmission, aluminium colour. |
Flexibility
Temperature resistance
Impact Resistance
TPU powder |
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Rubber thermoplastic polyurethane to make rubber parts with good elastic characteristics. |