THE FIRST BENCHTOP INDUSTRIAL SLS 3D PRINTER

The Selective Layer sintering (SLS) 3D process in SLS 3D printers fuses the powdered material layer by layer using a laser. The unused or surrounding powder acts as the support to the parts during printing which enables you to create complex, interconnecting designs without the need for any support structures.

The Formlabs Fuse 1 uses a patent pending Surface Armor technology, a semi-sintered shell that prints around the surface of the part which provides the parts with competitive mechanical properties and surface finish.

SLS technology highlights

Selective laser sintering is an additive manufacturing technology that uses a high power laser to sinter small particles of polymer powder into a solid structure based on a 3D model.

SLS 3D printing has been a popular choice for engineers and manufacturers for decades. Low cost per part, high productivity, and established materials make the technology ideal for a range of applications from prototyping to small-batch, bridge, or custom manufacturing.

Recent advances in machinery, materials, and software have made SLS printing accessible to a wider range of businesses, enabling more and more companies to use these tools that were previously limited to a few high-tech industries.

The benefits of SLS printing

High productivity and throughput. SLS printing is one of the fastest technologies for producing functional, durable prototypes and end use parts. Many parts can be arranged closely together to maximise the build volume.
Low cost materials: Nylon is an affordable material and with SLS technology, the material can be recycled to minimise waste.
Design freedom: Parts are supported within the powder so there are no additional supports required which allow you to print complex geometries.
Proven end use materials: Nylon is a high quality thermoplastic with mechanical properties comparable to those created with conventional manufacturing methods such as injection moulding.