SLS 3D Printing - Functional Parts Without Supports

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What is SLS Printing?

Analysis of SLS (Selective Laser Sintering) 3D Printing Technology

SLS is an industrial-level additive manufacturing process that uses a high-power laser to layer-by-layer fuse nylon, TPU or metal powder materials to directly form complex functional components. Its core advantage lies in:

No supporting structure required:

The un-sintered powder naturally supports the shape, enabling the creation of unconventional designs such as hollow and nested shapes that cannot be achieved through traditional methods.

Excellent material performance:

Nylon (PA12) components have strength comparable to injection-molded parts, and can withstand temperatures up to 180℃.

High-efficiency small-batch production solution:

Capable of printing hundreds of parts at a time, with a cost reduction of 60% compared to CNC.

Core advantages of SLS printing

Qiying uses German EOS industrial-grade equipment, providing one-stop services from design optimization to post-processing, helping the automotive, medical, and industrial fields achieve lightweight and rapid manufacturing.

No supporting structure required, freely realizing complex cavities and movable components;

Industrial-grade nylon (PA12/PA11) and TPU materials, with mechanical properties comparable to injection molded parts;

Can produce hundreds of parts in a single batch, efficiency increased by 5 times compared to traditional processes;

High temperature resistant (180℃), resistant to chemical corrosion, directly used in end products

Our SLS 3D Printing Service

The SLS Process Overview

Pre-processing stage

Model optimization: Adjust the wall thickness, optimize the heat distribution, and prevent deformation
Powder preparation: Load the nylon (PA12/PA11) or TPU powder into the equipment and preheat it to a temperature close to the melting point (approximately 170℃)

Printing process

Laser Sintering: CO₂ laser (power 30 - 100W) selectively sinters the powder layers (layer thickness 0.08 - 0.15mm)
Layer-by-layer formation: The powder spreading roller evenly lays a new powder layer, and the process of cyclic sintering is repeated until the part is completed.

Post-processing procedures

Cooling and recovery: The forming chamber is slowly cooled (4-8 hours), and un-sintered powder is recovered (reutilization rate reaches 70%)
Surface treatment: Sandblasting/embossing treatment improves surface texture, while dyeing or coating enhances functionality.