Stereolithography, better known as SLA, is a sophisticated 3D printing technique in which a liquid resin is cured layer by layer using a UV light source. This creates highly accurate parts with an impressive level of detail.
SLS printing enables the creation of extremely complex geometries without support structures. The unsintered powder acts as a support, allowing overhangs, internal channels, and undercuts to be printed effortlessly.
SLS-printed parts offer superior mechanical properties with consistent strength in all directions. These isotropic characteristics ensure reliable performance, even under stress.
Unlike many other 3D printing technologies, SLS requires no support structures, resulting in minimal post-processing and allowing for complex assemblies to be printed in a single build.
SLS offers an attractive cost curve for small to medium-sized production runs, without the need for expensive tools or molds.
SLS produces robust, functional prototypes that can be tested intensively under real-world conditions. These prototypes closely mimic injection-molded parts, making them ideal for validation and performance testing before investing in production tooling.
SLS creates parts with intricate geometries that would traditionally consist of multiple pieces. Moving hinges, integrated channels, and complex internal structures can be produced in a single print, eliminating assembly and enhancing functionality.
For series ranging from a few dozen to hundreds of pieces, SLS is a cost-effective alternative to traditional manufacturing. Without mold costs or minimum order requirements, parts can be produced quickly, with the flexibility to make design changes mid-run.
SLS-printed components are robust and durable enough for direct use in end products. From consumer electronics and medical devices to automotive parts – SLS delivers components that meet industrial standards for long-term use and reliability.
SLS allows the printing of internal structures that are up to 50% lighter than solid parts. This makes it ideal for applications in aerospace, automotive, and sports equipment, where weight reduction is key to performance.
When choosing the right technology for your project, SLS offers unique advantages:
SLS allows for more complex shapes than MJF, as no support structures are needed. SLS offers a wider range of materials for specialized applications. A major advantage is that SLS parts have uniform strength in all directions.
SLA is ideal for fine details and smooth surfaces, whereas SLS produces stronger parts. SLS parts are ready to use and durable enough for final applications. SLA is mainly used for visual models or when appearance is more important than strength.
SLS outperforms FDM in design freedom and strength. SLS parts are uniformly strong in all directions, while FDM prints often have weak spots between layers. SLS also delivers more precise results with better details, resulting in high-quality end products.
Unsure about the right 3D printing technique for your specific application? Get in touch with us! At 3iD, we are happy to think with you to find the perfect solution for your project.
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Parameter |
Specification |
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Layer thickness |
0.1 - 0.12 mm |
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Minimum wall thickness |
0.8 - 1.0 mm |
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Maximum build dimensions |
300 × 300 × 400 mm |
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Dimensional accuracy |
±0.3% (min. ±0.3 mm) |
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Mechanical properties |
Isotropic (equal strength in all directions) |
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Standard finish |
Matte, no lines, slightly grainy |
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Typical lead time |
3-7 working days |
SLS offers typical dimensional accuracy of ±0.3% (with a minimum of ±0.3 mm). This precision is consistent across both small and large parts, making SLS suitable for precision applications.
SLS is a specific type of powder-based 3D printing where a laser selectively fuses powder. Other powder-based methods like MJF use different fusing technologies. SLS is known for its design freedom and isotropic properties.
SLS parts are naturally slightly porous but can be made waterproof with a minimum wall thickness of 0.8-1 mm. For fully watertight applications, post-processing methods such as impregnation or coating can be applied.
Absolutely. SLS parts are highly suitable for post-processing techniques such as sanding, polishing, painting, and coating. The natural slightly rough surface texture provides excellent adhesion for paint, allowing high-quality finishes.
Our SLS printers can produce objects up to 300 x 300 x 400 mm. Larger parts can be split and assembled after printing, with SLS’s design flexibility enabling smart joining methods to be integrated.
SLS parts in PA12 or PA11 are extremely durable and can last for years in functional applications. They offer good UV resistance, chemical resistance, and fatigue strength, making them suitable for long-term use in demanding environments.
In addition to SLS 3D printing, we offer a range of other services:
