Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) 3D Printing Service
Table of Contents
SLS Tolerances Overview
| Feature | Standard Resolution | High Resolution |
|---|---|---|
| Build Envelope | 22.5” x 22.5” x 30” | 8.5” x 8.5” x 8.5” |
| Layer Height | 0.004” | 0.002” |
| XY Plane Tolerance | +/- 0.006” for the first inch, with an additional +/- 0.003” per inch beyond | +/- 0.006” for the first inch, with an additional +/- 0.003” per inch beyond |
| Z Plane Tolerance | +/- 0.010” for the first inch, with an additional +/- 0.002” per inch beyond | +/- 0.010” for the first inch, with an additional +/- 0.002” per inch beyond |
| Minimum Linear Feature Size | Features under 0.030” may be at risk; features under 0.020” likely won’t build | Features under 0.020” may be at risk; features under 0.010” likely won’t build |
| Minimum Radial Feature Size | 0.040” | 0.035” |
Note: These tolerances are typical for SLS processes and may vary due to stress during the build, support structures, and design considerations. For tighter tolerances, a manual review might be required after prototype completion. General tolerances apply before any secondary finishing or post-processing unless specified otherwise.
Modo Rapid offers seamless access to premium SLS 3D printing services, utilizing state-of-the-art additive manufacturing technologies.
Choose from over 30 materials and multiple finishing options to perfectly match your project requirements.
SLS Materials and Their Properties
| Material Name | Description | Tensile Strength (MPa) | Elongation at Break (%) | Flexural Modulus (MPa) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nylon 12 (PA 12) | Durable, versatile, chemically resistant | 45-48 MPa | 19-38% | 1600 MPa |
| Nylon 11 (PA 11) | Biodegradable, high ductility | 48 MPa | 56% | 1483 MPa |
| Glass-Filled Nylon 12 | Enhanced rigidity, reduced impact resistance | 45-65 MPa | 5-7% | 2600-3200 MPa |
| Carbon-Filled Nylon 12 | High strength, stiffness, lightweight | 60-72 MPa | 4-8% | 6000-8000 MPa |
| Alumide | Metallic appearance, high thermal conductivity | 48 MPa | 4% | 3700 MPa |
| TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) | Flexible, rubber-like, wear-resistant | 25 MPa | 300% | 450 MPa |
| PP (Polypropylene) | Chemical resistance, flexible, durable | Varies | Varies | Varies |
| PEEK | High strength, excellent chemical resistance | Varies | Varies | Varies |
| PEKK | Superior thermal resistance, excellent wear resistance | Varies | Varies | Varies |
These materials are commonly used in SLS 3D printing across various industries, providing a range of mechanical and thermal properties tailored to specific applications
Capabilities of SLS 3D Printers
| Maximum Build Volume | Typical Lead Time | Dimensional Precision | Layer Thickness | Smallest Feature Size | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SLS 3D Printers | 400 x 400 x 450 mm (15.75 x 15.75 x 17.72 in) | From 4 business days | ± 0.3% with a lower limit of ± 0.3 mm | 60-150 μm | 0.5 mm |
Key Features:
Maximum Build Volume: The build volume can vary among different models, with high-end printers like the QLS 820 offering volumes up to 350 x 350 x 400 mm, while others like the 3D Systems SLS 380 go up to 381 x 330 x 460 mm. However, a common standard for many industrial models is around 400 x 400 x 450 mm.
Typical Lead Time: The lead time can start from as short as 4 business days, depending on part complexity and post-processing requirements.
Dimensional Precision: SLS 3D printers offer high precision, with typical accuracy around ±0.3% or down to ±0.3 mm, whichever is greater.
Layer Thickness: The layer thickness in SLS printing typically ranges from 60 to 150 μm. This allows for fine details and smooth surfaces on finished parts.
Smallest Feature Size: The minimum feature size achievable with SLS is generally around 0.5 mm, although this can vary depending on the specific machine and material used.
Advanced 3D Printing Solutions for Engineering with SLS
Access robust and highly accurate printed components at every stage of your product development.
Compare SLS Materials for Optimal Performance
Explore material properties and filter by application during your setup process with detailed profiles.
Optimize Print Resolution
Adjust layer thickness in the settings to achieve the perfect balance between detail and production time for SLS parts.
Enhance Surface Finish Quality
Include optional post-processing configurations by uploading your drawing with marked areas for specific finishing requirements.
SLS Post-Processing
At Modo Rapid, we provide extensive post-processing options to ensure your parts meet exact specifications. Our services include smoothing, painting, and coating, enhancing both aesthetics and performance. We also offer polishing and dyeing for specific materials, ensuring a professional finish for all components.
Comparison of 3D Printing Technologies
| Technology | Materials | Price | Dimensional Accuracy | Strengths | Build Volume | Layer Thickness | Min. Feature Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FDM | 5 | $ | ± 0.5% with a lower limit of ± 0.5 mm | Low cost, wide range of materials | 500 x 500 x 500 mm (19.68″ x 19.68″ x 19.68″) | 100-300μm | 2.0 mm (0.0787”) |
| Industrial FDM | 6 | $$$$ | ± 0.3% with a lower limit of ± 0.3 mm (± 0.012″) | High repeatability, engineering-grade materials | 406 x 355 x 406 mm (15.98” x 13.97” x 15.98″) | 100-330μm | 2.0 mm (0.0787”) |
| Prototyping SLA | 8 | $$ | ± 0.3% with a lower limit of ± 0.3 mm (± 0.012″) | Smooth surface finish, fine detail resolution | 145 × 145 × 175 mm (5.7″ x 5.7″ x 6.8″) | 50-100μm | 0.2 mm (0.00787”) |
| Industrial SLA | 3 | $$$ | ± 0.2% with a lower limit of ± 0.13 mm (± 0.005″) | Smooth surface finish, large build area | 500 x 500 x 500 mm (19.68″ x 19.68″ x 19.68″) | 50-100μm | 0.2 mm (0.00787”) |
| SLS | 2 | $$ | ± 0.3% with a lower limit of ± 0.3 mm (± 0.012”) | Design flexibility, no supports required | 395 x 500 x 395 mm (15.53″ x 19.68″ x 15.53″) | 100μm | 0.5 mm (0.0196”) |
| MJF | 2 | $$ | ± 0.3% with a lower limit of ± 0.3 mm (0.012”) | Design flexibility, no supports required | 380 x 285 x 380 mm (14.9” x 11.2” x 14.9”) | 80μm | 0.5 mm (0.0196”) |
Our Commitment to High Standards in SLS 3D Printing
At Modo Rapid, we manufacture your custom parts with strict adherence to our high standards, ensuring that all components and processes comply with our rigorous quality guidelines. A detailed inspection report is included with every order.
- All parts are carefully cleaned and inspected to remove any loose powder before shipment.
- Complex geometries are analyzed to ensure they meet all design specifications.
Pros & Cons of SLS 3D Printing
Advantage
SLS 3D printing excels in creating robust, durable parts with complex geometries without the need for support structures. This technology is ideal for functional prototypes and end-use components, as it produces parts with excellent mechanical properties and high resistance to impact and wear. Additionally, SLS offers a range of high-performance materials, such as nylon, glass-filled nylon, and TPU, making it versatile for various industrial applications.
Disadvantage
Despite its strengths, SLS has some limitations. The surface finish of SLS parts is generally rougher compared to other 3D printing technologies, requiring additional post-processing to achieve a smoother appearance. While SLS parts are strong, the material selection can limit flexibility, and the process can result in slightly porous parts that may need sealing for certain applications. Additionally, SLS printing can be more expensive than other methods due to the cost of materials and the complexity of the process.
Design Guidelines for SLS 3D Printing
When designing parts for SLS 3D printing, it’s essential to consider specific technical specifications for optimal results. The table below outlines the recommended and feasible sizes for some common features in SLS 3D printed parts. For unsupported walls, a thickness of 1.0 mm (0.0393 in) is recommended, while supported walls can be as thin as 0.7 mm (0.0275 in). The minimum feature size that can be accurately printed is 0.3 mm (0.0118 in), and the smallest hole diameter should be at least 0.7 mm (0.0275 in). Additionally, for escape holes, a minimum diameter of 5.0 mm (0.196 in) is advised.
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Production Feasibility Analysis
Before moving into full production, we conduct a comprehensive feasibility analysis to ensure that your design can be efficiently manufactured at scale. This step involves evaluating the materials, manufacturing processes, and potential challenges to ensure a smooth transition from prototype to production. Our team will collaborate closely with you to refine your design, optimize for manufacturability, and mitigate risks.
3D printing
Our 3D printing services offer rapid prototyping with precision and flexibility, allowing you to quickly test and iterate on your designs. We provide a range of 3D printing technologies, including SLA, SLS, and FDM, to match your specific needs, whether you require detailed models or functional parts. This stage is crucial for validating design concepts before moving to more advanced manufacturing processes.
Urethane Casting
For low to medium volume production, urethane casting offers a cost-effective solution with high fidelity to the original prototype. This process is ideal for creating durable, flexible parts that closely resemble injection-molded components. We use high-quality silicone molds and urethane resins to produce parts with excellent surface finishes and physical properties.
Injection Molding
When you’re ready for large-scale production, our injection molding services ensure consistent, high-quality parts with efficient turnaround times. We specialize in both prototype and production molds, offering a variety of materials to suit your product’s needs. From small batches to full-scale production, our injection molding capabilities are designed to meet your demands.
We Help You Go From Prototype To Production
Quality Checks at Every Stage for Your Parts
Initial Material Inspection:
Equipment: Optical Emission Spectrometer (OES) or X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) Analyzer. Purpose: Verify the composition and quality of raw materials before production begins.
In-Process Dimensional Inspection:
Equipment: Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) and Vernier Calipers. Purpose: Ensure parts meet dimensional specifications during various stages of machining.
Surface Finish Inspection:
Equipment: Surface Roughness Tester. Purpose: Check the surface texture and finish to meet the required standards.
Final Quality Inspection:
Equipment: ZEISS Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) and Optical Comparator. Purpose: Conduct a comprehensive inspection of the finished part to verify all dimensions, tolerances, and overall quality.
2 ZEISS CMMs for your project 24/7
We are a 24-hour facility with technicians working 3 shifts. For many of our customer’s urgent projects, we use our 2 ZEISS CMM’s to inspect the parts and make sure your project goes smoothly.
Quality Inspections We Perform for Your Parts
Rapid Printing According To Your Needs
Prototypes: 1-7 Days Lead Time
Small Batches: 7-10 Days Lead Time
Large Volumes: 10-30 Days Lead Time
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Frequently Ask Questions
Modo Rapid ensures fast delivery, with SLS printed parts typically shipped within as little as one day, depending on complexity and material choice. This rapid turnaround helps accelerate your design process and reduces time to market.
Our SLS printing services are certified under ISO 9001:2015, IATF 16949:2016, and AS9100D standards. These certifications guarantee that our manufacturing processes meet the highest quality standards, essential for industries like aerospace, automotive, and medical devices.
While SLS is typically used for prototyping and short-run production, it can be scaled up for larger production runs, particularly when the parts require complex geometries or need to be lightweight yet strong.
SLS parts are durable and can last for many years, especially when made from high-performance materials. However, the lifespan can vary depending on the material and the application, particularly if the parts are exposed to harsh environments.
SLS supports a wide range of materials, including various types of nylon, glass-filled nylon, carbon-fiber-reinforced nylon, and TPU. These materials are selected based on the desired properties, such as strength, flexibility, or heat resistance.
Quality is ensured through rigorous inspection processes at every stage of production. We utilize advanced equipment like Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs) and Optical Emission Spectrometers (OES) to verify that each part meets the required specifications.
Yes, SLS is capable of producing large parts up to 29.52″ x 21.65″ x 21.65″ in size, making it ideal for large prototypes, automotive components, and other industrial applications.
Yes, SLS parts can undergo various post-processing techniques, such as smoothing, dyeing, painting, and coating, to enhance their appearance and performance.
Lead times vary based on the size and complexity of the project. Prototypes can be delivered in as little as 1-7 days, small batches in 7-10 days, and large volumes in 10-30 days.
Bronze 3D Printing Service
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Color 3D Printing Service by Modo Rapid
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