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SLS

SELECTIVE LASER SINTERING

Perfect for producing large quantities, of small parts, in real thermoplastics.

SLS (Selective Laser Sintering) or LS (Laser Sintering) is ideal for creating parts in actual Polyamide; Nylon 12, Glass Filled Nylon and TPU elastomer parts.

BuildParts utilizes sPro 60 digital high-def, high-speed sintering machines, which produce fine features, smoother surfaces and thinner walls than most other service bureaus. SLS plastic parts in most cases are used in AM (Additive Manufacturing), partly due to the speed in which the process can create multiple pieces at one time, as well as, the strength and thermal resistance the parts offer.

For larger production needs and single piece parts up to 27.6 x 15 x 22.9 in (700 x 380 x 580 mm), BuildParts has recently added multiple EOS P770 machines. These offer fantastic a surface finish with incredibly fast build speeds.

This method of building parts allows for complex wireframe and assemblies to be built with precision and speed. The part may be used as is, or further processed with a sealant for water or air tight applications.  It is not uncommon (like with the FDM process) to find parts produced in these high heat deflection materials, in the engine bay of a vehicle for testing.

Great for; Durable Prototypes, Additive Manufacturing, fit and function models that do not require an ultra smooth surface directly off of the machine.  Parts can be dyed or sanded, primed and painted. SLS/LS are superb for snap fits, tabs or living hinges in Duraform PA, without the need to infiltrate to final part.

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  • Chemical resistence & excellent heat deflection for parts that also require durability.
  • Because many parts can be stacked vertically during a build, SLS and LS are both optimal methods for producing large batches of parts in one production run.
  • Parts can be extremely inexpensive when ordered in large quantities.
  • SLS; PA and EX offer fantastic living hinges and create a nice durable, yet somewhat flexible, rigid part.
  • Glass Filled (GF) Nylon is the most common material choice , but non filled is available.
  • Great for; DDM, fit and function models that do not require an ultra smooth surface.
  • Typical Lead-times are 3 to 6 days.

MATERIALS

  • SLS models can be built up to: 15″ x 13″ x 18″ (550mm x 550mm x 460mm). Larger models of virtually any size, can be sectioned and assembled upon completion.
  • Typical Layer Thickness: 0.004″
  • LS models can be built up to: 27.6″ x 15″ x 22.9″ (700mm x 380mm x 580mm). Larger models of virtually any size, can be sectioned and assembled upon completion.
  • Layer Thickness: 0.003″ – 0.006″
  • SLS & LS: Accuracy: +/- .005″ for the first 5 inches, +/- .001″ inch per inch thereafter.
  • Slightly gritty surface with faint layer lines & better than average text. Warping can be an issue on larger flat parts, or parts positioned near the edges of the build chamber.
SLS/LS instead of Polyjet
  • SLS/LS offer a much higher heat deflection, chemical resistance and durability. Parts can be bonded fairly well and are produced using actual plastics.
SLS/LS instead of FDM
  • For Large quantities of medium & small parts, SLS/LS parts can be considerably less expensive. SLS offers a far superior living hinge to anything FDM can offer. Large gear teeth and tabs (built vertically) can be more durable in SLS/LS.
SLS/LS instead of Urethane Castings
  • Better leadtimes on medium to large quantities of parts. Certain materials are accepted and popular among aerospace communities.
  • Most SLS/LS parts are shipped with the support material blown or shaken off upon completion.
  • Parts can be sealed for water and air tight testing.
  • Parts can be immediately painted or dyed.
  • Painting; Once sealed, can be, primed, sanded and painted to match a color chip or specific Pantone color.
  • Shielding; Parts can be sprayed with an EMI shield or static dissipative coating.
  • Available metal coatings; vacuum metallizing, painted chrome (with different tints available) & electroplating in nickel, polished or unpolished. Call if a custom metal “look is required”.

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