There are several types of 3D printing available these days, each with their own set of capabilities. SLS printing has become a reliable option for many manufacturers. It is known for sharp precision and complex geometry, creating detailed features and highly finished parts. But some people wonder, how strong are SLS 3D printed parts?

Are SLS 3D Printed Parts Strong Enough for Functional Use?

Are SLS Printed Parts Strong?

The short answer is: YES! It is important to note, however, that you need to choose the right material and the right design.

The most common material used in SLS printing is nylon, which is a synthetic thermoplastic polymer. It comes in the form of a composite material with several variants, including Nylon 12, Nylon 11, Nylon 12 GF, and Nylon 11 CF. These variants are versatile and capable, and can be altered and tailored to enhance parts for certain qualities such as strength, stiffness, and flexibility. This makes nylon a great option for many different applications and various industries such as engineering, manufacturing, and healthcare.
 

The Benefits of Using Nylon

  • Durable - Nylon SLS 3D printed parts are strong, sturdy, and stiff. They can handle repeated wear and tear, and are even impact resistant. 
  • Environmentally Stable - SLS parts made from nylon have high environmental stability. This is because nylon is resistant to light including UV; temperature, heat, and moisture; and water and other solvents. 
  • Other Benefits - Many manufacturers are drawn to nylon as it is a lightweight material. It is also biocompatible, making it a safer - and also wearable -  option in certain instances.
     

The Right Design

Don’t forget, having the right design is half the battle when it comes to functional strength. At Finnovation Product Development, we use the latest SLS technology with dynamic nylon material options to create 3D printed parts with complex geometry, high precision, and superior strength. We’re also proud to offer some of the fastest turnaround times in the industry. 

Contact us today for a no obligation consultation to see how we can help with your design process.  We can be reached by calling 585-472-9932 or by emailing us through our contact page. We're located in Ontario, NY and serve clients in Western NY and throughout the United States.