3D Printing Industrial Prototypes

Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)
The use of selective laser sintering prototyping (commonly called SLS prototyping or 3D SLS prototyping) is
ideal for product prototypes that require exceptional strength or must closely approximate the properties of
thermoplastics.
In (SLS), three-dimensional parts are created by fusing (“sintering”) powdered thermoplastic materials such as
nylon, metals, and elastomers with the heat from an infrared laser beam. Thin powder layers are repeatedly
laser sintered, creating the desired 3D piece based on a 3D CAD model.
SLA vs. SLS
Stereolithography (SLA) is often compared to selective laser sintering (SLS); however, there are several key
differences between prototypes created with these two rapid manufacturing techniques.
These differences include:
• Turn-around time: SLA/SLS prototypes are based on a subcontractor’s scheduled workload.
• Tight tolerances: SLA prototypes can achieve tolerances +/- 0.005” (0.127mm) for the initial inch, plus
an additional 0.002” for each additional inch.
• Surface finish: SLA prototypes typically have a cosmetically superior finish, while SLS prototypes are
typically powdery and granular.
• Batch volume: SLA is well suited for small-batch or small-lot manufacturing of prototype or end-use parts.
• Prototype strength: SLS prototypes are generally stronger and more durable than SLA prototypes.
• Material properties: SLS allows product prototypes to be created with material properties similar to
those of injection molded prototypes.
• Machining properties: It is easier to machine prototypes created using SLS than those created using SLA.
• Material choice: SLS allows for product prototypes in many different thermoplastic or metal materials.
• Metal product prototypes: SLS can be used to create metal prototype parts using metallic powder in
the laser sintering process.
• Post-completion processing: There is typically very little (if any) processing required after the SLS
process is completed.
PolyJet 3D Printing
PolyJet industrial 3D printing is the most versatile of additive manufacturing service and provides a fast, costeffective
way to achieve visually striking rapid prototypes for pre-production and short-run production parts.
The 3D printing equipment is the latest in PolyJet innovation and allows for rapid product prototype creation
in complex shapes and forms.
PolyJet 3D printing is well-suited for parts with multiple material requirements, such as overlays or inserts
with differing levels of flexibility, and can create prototypes that incorporate a full palette of colors. PolyJet
3D printing also employs a wide range of materials that can be used to create any number of durometers
from hard to quite soft. In PolyJet 3D printing, a photo polymer is sprayed from a printhead cured with a
UV lamp to quickly make small quantities of parts.
The 3D printing rapid prototyping process offers fine layer thickness in the Z dimension — this allows for
small features along sidewalls and upfacing surfaces.