Selective laser sintering (SLS) is a 3D printing technology that uses a high-power laser to sinter small particles of polymer powder into solid parts. The unfused powder supports the part during printing and eliminates the need for dedicated support structures. This makes SLS 3D printing ideal for complex geometries, including interior features, undercuts, thin walls, and negative features, as well as enabling higher-volume production applications — the self-supporting print bed allows parts to ‘nest,’ so that customers can fully pack the build chamber and reach production volumes, even with only one printer.  

No, the unsintered powder surrounding the part acts as a natural support structure during the printing process, eliminating the need for dedicated supports.

The Fuse Series supports engineering-grade materials including Nylon 12, Nylon 11, TPU, and glass- or carbon-filled nylon composites. Explore our SLS 3D printing materials here. 

Basic steps for SLS post-processing include removing excess, unsintered powder from the parts and media blasting the parts to fully clean them and smooth the surfaces. Formlabs SLS ecosystem includes the Fuse Sift and Fuse Blast, which make the powder recovery and part cleaning process faster, easier, and cleaner. There are also advanced 3D print post-processing methods like coating, smoothing, painting, vapor smoothing, and electroplating that can improve aesthetics, mechanical properties, and overall performance to make your parts suitable for a wide range of applications.

Yes, Fuse Series SLS 3D printers are designed to fit into office or workshop settings with consistent housekeeping practices.

SLA uses a light source to cure liquid resin into solid parts, while SLS uses a laser to sinter polymer powder, making each technology suited to different applications and materials.

You can contact a Formlabs 3D printing expert directly through the website for a personalized consultation and quote.