Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)

SLS is a method that is mainly used to produce functional parts. In addition, this method is also used for the so-called rapid-manufacturing process; producing in small series of products all of which are not necessarily exactly the same and are used immediately as a final product.

Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) is a rapid prototyping technique in which a laser having a small diameter, low dropwise a powder is melted to each other. The process takes place in a heated room filled with Nitrogen.

There may be used various materials via the selective laser sintering, such as metal, polystyrene, EPDM, PP, and various types of nylon. In the SLS-products can be selected from various materials. VRT uses VRT SLS (if you wish, we can send you a datasheet of this material). This is a nylon powder with very good mechanical properties, fine surface structure and a plastic-like behavior. The models can be painted and geïnpregneerd (to improve water and air tightness).

It is also possible to opt for VRT SLS GF. The nylon powder is enriched with a glass filling 15%, making it stronger and more suitable for functional models which are heavily taxed.

Reasons to opt for SLS:
Model can be functionally responsible
High temperature requirements
Film hinges and snap fingers possible
Parts can be built combined and / or stacked in order to reduce the price per unit

Cons SLS:
Deformation is possible on large surfaces
One must take into account the construction direction to get the maximum strength and tightest product, this may adversely affect the price
Longer delivery times for heating and cooling
Less accurate than SLA

General information:
Dimensions: 295x320x400mm up from one piece, larger parts can be glued
Minimum wall thickness: 0.5mm
Layer Thickness: 0.1mm