Selective Laser Sintering (SLS®)

SLS is an additive fabrication process which uses a CO2 laser to sinter (fuse) powders together layer by layer to create a
3-dimensional prototype. The thermoplastic or metal powders used in this process create a highly durable and
functional prototype.
These prototypes are so functional that the US space program has sent the shuttle and the space station into orbit with
custom-made components built from selective laser sintering systems.

  Second commercially available rapid prototyping technology
  CO2 laser sinters powdered materials together (thermoplastics and metals)
  7 in-house SLS systems


Available Materials
  EOS PA (nylon)
  EOS GF (glass-filled nylon)
  LaserForm A6 (steel w/bronze infiltration)
  CastForm PS (investment)


SLS Strengths
  functional materials
  broad range of material properties
  no support structures


SLS Weaknesses
  typical tolerance of .007” to .020”
  features > .030”
  rough surface finish
  limited size (11” X 13” X 15”)