SLS Selective Laser Sintering
SLS is a rapid prototype process in which a computer controlled high-precision laser produces three dimensional models or patterns by sintering fine powder particles together.
What is SLS?
Selective laser sintering a.k.a. SLS, is an additive rapid manufacturing technique that uses a high power laser to fuse small particles of plastic or metal powders into a mass representing a desired 3-dimensional object. The laser selectively fuses powdered material by scanning cross-sections generatedfrom a 3-D digital description of the part (for example from a CAD file or scan data) on the surface of a powder bed. After each cross-section is scanned, the powder bed is lowered by one layer thickness, a new layer of material is applied on top, and the process is repeated until the part is completed. Compared to other rapid manufacturing methods, SLS can produce parts from a relatively wide range of commercially available powder materials, including polymers and metals. Depending on the material, up to 100% density can be achieved with material properties comparable to those from conventional manufacturing methods. In many cases large numbers of parts can be packed within the powder bed, allowing very high productivity. One need only brush off surrounding powder after processing. Bonded powder parts can be further strengthened by wax, thermoset polymer or bronze impregnation.
Stereolithography (SLA), Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) and 3D Printing (3DP) are the core Rapid Prototyping Technologies utilized at Bastech, Inc.
We then enhance these rapid prototyping processes by offering reproductions, both plastic and metal, as well as rapid prototype tooling options. Here is a list of services we provide:
- 3DP - 3D Printing and Modeling Casting Patterns ("Bascast" Low/No Ash)
- 3DP - 3D Printing and Modeling Prototypes
- RTV - RTV Molding / Urethane Reproductions
- RTV - Urethane Assembly and Inspection Fixtures
- SLA - Stereolithography Prototypes
- SLA - Stereolithography Casting Patterns (QuickCast)
- SLS - Selective Laser Sintering "Duraform" Rapid Prototypes
- SLS - Selective Laser Sintering "CastForm" Investment Casting Patterns
- SLS - Selective Laser Sintering "LaserForm" Metal Rapid Prototypes
- SRP - Subtractive Rapid Prototyping
- Thermojet Wax Casting Patterns
- Advanced Part Finishing: Painting/Clearcoating/Etc.
- Full Model Mockups and Class A Trade Show Displays