How Does An SLS Printer From Formlabs Work?

If you’re interested in buying an SLS printer from Formlabs, a trusted supplier such as Solid Print3D can help you out. SLS stands for “selective laser sintering”, which is a 3D printing process. An SLS printer works by using high-power lasers to put together the minuscule grains of polymer powder.

3D printing has become increasingly popular over the past few years, not least because it is fast becoming a more affordable and convenient way of creating three-dimensional items. Although there are different approaches to 3D printing, SLS is one of the most popular choices out there.

The Advantages Of SLS

Solid Print3D recommends a Formlabs SLS printer; it’s often the top choice for anyone who needs to create prototypes and functional parts. Its mechanical properties are ideally built for working on these kinds of projects.

It’s also perfect for creating objects that are geometrically complex. Because it doesn’t need much support, it can be used to make whatever shape you need it to form.

The SLS Formlabs 3D printer is also the best option if you want a high-quality output for small to medium batches of items. Just a point to note, though:  the end results may need a little post-processing because of the grainy finish.

The good news is that this post-processing is usually relatively easy to do. You can try dyeing, lacquering, polishing, or spray painting, depending on your requirements.

The SLS 3D Printing Process

Here’s a step-by-step look at the process.

1. Inside the build chamber of the Formlab SLS printer, a thin layer of polymer powder is spread out onto a platform.
2. The printer will preheat the powder and maintain a temperature just below the raw material’s melting point. This step makes it easier for the laser to increase the temperature on specific points as it copies the model.
3. As it scans the model, the powder supply particles are fused together, creating a single, solid part. The unfused powder supply serves as the part’s support, thus eliminating the need for any support structures.
4. The platform lowers down by a single layer in depth into the build chamber. This layer is usually around 50 to 100 microns. A recoater then starts to add each layer of powder material on top. The laser then continues to scan the next section of the part being built.
5. The process is repeated layer after layer until the entire object is complete. It is given enough time to cool down inside the printer.
6. Once the parts are ready, the build chamber is brought out of the printer. The printed parts are then separated, and any excess powder left can be cleaned off. Excess powder is cleaned off using the Fuse Sift.

The printing process in 3D has definitely come a long way from its initial development in the 1980s. The various technologies available today offer a much more efficient and cost-effective way to make all sorts of 3D items. And with the Formlabs SLS printer, it’s an affordable option for your business to invest in.

If you want to enjoy the benefits of an SLS Formlabs printer, talk to a trusted supplier in the business. Contact Solid Print3D today by calling 01926 333 777 or by sending us an email to info@solidprint3d.co.uk.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the difference between SLA and SLS?

An SLS printer is different from an SLA printer in a number of ways. For instance, an SLS Formlabs printer uses powder that is selectively fused together, while with an SLA printer, a liquid resin is cured instead.

Both printer types do have their similarities, however. Both utilise a laser to create the objects that they produce layer by layer.

What is SLS 3D printing?

Selective laser sintering (SLS) is a method that uses a laser to sinter powdered material. A powdered form laser 3D printer aims the laser automatically at points in space taken up by a 3D model, then binds the material together to form a solid structure. Powder recovery will ensure your process is more sustainable.

What material does SLS use?

SLS printers use production-grade nylon materials, which are known to create durable, functional parts that last.

It is also worth noting that parts printed using a Formlabs SLS drucker can easily compete with other parts produced using traditional manufacturing techniques.

How do SLS printers work?

As seen in various Formlabs Fuse 1 SLS 3D printer demos, tiny particles of hardy materials such as plastic, glass, or ceramic are fused together using heat from a high-power laser to form a durable, three-dimensional solid object. SLS technology is one of the best ways to 3D-print materials today.

What are the advantages of SLS?

SLS parts made with a high-powered laser printer have good, isotropic mechanical properties, making them highly suitable for use as functional parts and prototypes.

Because SLS products created using an industrial environment 3D printer require no supports, producing complex geometric designs simply isn’t an issue. Also, the machine’s high-manufacturing capabilities are ideal for small to medium batch production.

Reasons Why You Should Buy SLS Printers For Your Business

One of the most widely used technologies for additive manufacturing these days is the selective laser sintering 3D printer. Nowadays, this technology is no longer limited to creating prototypes.

SLS technology has also found various applications in a wide variety of industries. If you’re wondering how a Formlabs SLS printer can benefit your industry and line of business, listed below are some advantages:

1. It can produce highly complex yet lightweight parts.
2. It enables the use of powerful systems and models for faster product development cycles.
3. It can manufacture a large volume of customised and on-demand parts made of metals, ceramics, and other durable materials.

Advancements In SLS Printer Technology

SLS printers from Formlabs are ideal for both functional prototyping and small production runs, offering a high degree of freedom of design, accuracy, and exceptional mechanical properties.

Recent advances in this technology have led to the creation of more affordable machines that boast a smaller size while retaining industrial-level performance. Many of these machines, such as those offered by Formlabs have become relatively inexpensive to purchase.

Different SLS 3D Printers

There are several types of SLS 3D printers on the market today. To best understand which machine to get for your specific industry or business, you need to know the underlying technology used. You should also take note of which are the leading manufacturers of a high-quality laser fuse polymer powder printer, as well as the type, features, and pricing of each. Powder recovery is a key feature of the Formlabs Fuse, which is recovered when using the fuse sift.

3D printing is one of the most sophisticated technologies today. With the use of SLS 3D printers, there is a whole host of new high-quality products, parts, and functional materials that can be created with precision and ease.

To find out more about the power of Formlabs SLA/SLS technology, get in touch with Solid Print 3D now. Visit our store for the latest products and price offerings.