3D printing covers a range of technologies, which can make it difficult to choose the best type of 3D printer for your project. One surefire solution is to consider the capabilities and qualities that are required to create the part. Material selection, design freedom, and precision should all be taken into account. But what about geometry? If you need a 3D technology that offers a variety of complex geometries, then SLS printing is the way to go.

What Kind of Geometry Can an SLS Printer Make?

Geometric options are almost endless when it comes to SLS printing. Typical geometries seen in multiple industries include:

  • Variable wall thickness
  • Holes and hole diameters
  • Post diameters
  • Hollow or internal cavities
  • Interlocking or moving parts
  • Mechanical joints

How Can SLS Printing Make So Many Geometries?

Size

How is it possible for SLS printers to make so many types of geometries? It begins with size. SLS printers can print any geometry that is over 0.030" in size, giving it an advantage over any other process.

Material Selection

SLS printers can print geometry that cannot be injection molded and allows for much greater design freedom without the typical restrictions of traditional manufacturing processes. This is true of any laser based sintering process not exclusive to nylon, but nylon is the smoothest and requires the least post processing.

No Support Structure Leads to Design Freedom & Complex Geometries

Outside support structures are not required for SLS printing, as the unsintered nylon powder becomes the support for the sintered nylon part. The biggest advantage of not needing an outside support structure is that it allows for more design freedom. Clients can construct intricate and highly complex geometries and can be far more creative with what they want their end products to look like.

If you need a 3D technology that allows complex geometry, design freedom, and a wide range of sizes, SLS printing may be right for you. At Finnovation Product Development, we use the latest SLS technology with dynamic material options and offer some of the fastest turnaround times in the industry. We are located in Rochester, NY and proudly serve clients locally and throughout the United States. Contact us today for a no obligation consultation to see how we can streamline your design process. We can be reached by phone at 585-472-9932 or via email through our website’s contact page.