VERSATILE. DURABLE. FUNCTIONAL PARTS.
Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) and Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) Technology is another type of additive manufacturing which makes use of a high power optic laser that fuses small powder particles layer by layer to produce complex and durable geometric parts. Unlike other additive manufacturing technologies, parts are surrounded by loose powder-like material during the build — eliminating the costs and time requirements of tooling.
Created by university doctors Carl Deckard and Joe Beaman in the 80s, SLS Technology is still widely used around the world today. Originally designed for building prototypes, SLS manufacturing has now evolved in a preferred method for creating end-use parts in small to large volumes.
Using a laser to join powder-like materials such as plastic, metal, ceramic, or glass, three-dimensional shapes can be created from 3D CAD files or data obtained through image scanning. Specified cross-sections are lasered layer by layer on the surface of chosen material. As a section is completed, the tray of powder is lowered by one layer thickness so a new layer of material can applied on top. These steps are continued over and over until the model is whole.
Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) and Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) technologies makes it possible to achieve durable builds with full density and strength depending on the material used — results are comparable to goods created from conventional manufacturing methods. Scalable production possibilities appeal to designers, engineers, and manufacturers looking to produce finished products in large volumes to achieve very high productivity.