SLS Technology in Comparison to FDM / SLA

Selective laser sintering (SLS) technology allows printing complex objects with an exceptionally high degree in freedom of form. The printing process doesn’t need any support structures. SLS can even produce movable parts that don’t have to be assembled. Whether stiff or flexible, 3D printed objects are highly resilient, temperature-resistant and suitable for long-term use. The technology is particularly suitable for functional prototypes, conducting pilot studies and the single production of customized parts but also – more and more – for the manufacturing of small series.

Big advantages of SLS

No need for support structures

The print powder itself works as natural support structure. After the loose material is brushed off the finished print, the part doesn’t need any mechanical finishing.

Print full functional parts

You can print gaps between parts, that they can free rotate or move within other printed parts. Which this technology, its possible to print multiple connected parts, which are not sintered together. Create functional prototypes with moving parts in one print, without assembly.

Durable and solid prints

Parts can be printed with filling structure or solid. Hollow parts need a hole to remove the loose powder from hollow. Nylon parts are extremly durable and mechanical machinable.

Compare technologies

SLS (selective laser sintering)SLA (stereolithography)FDM (fused deposition modeling)
Freeform Yes No No
Build without Support structures Yes No No
Print movable parts Yes No No
Raw materialPowderLiquidFilament
UV resistance Yes No Yes
Resolution
High
Very High
Low
Mechanical machinable
Yes
No
Yes
Temperature resistance
High
Low
High
Durability
Solid and very durable
Fragile
Durable
Best suited forDurable, functional parts with high complexity. Industrial rapid prototypingLow complexity, models without mechanical abilitiesLow complexity, very cheap, home usage

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