DMLS Materials - Technical Specifications

W H A T I S S L S & F I N I S H I N G
What is Selective Laser Sintering?
SLS is a process of fusing together layers of
powder (eg. Nylon, Glass Filled Nylon or Alumide) into
a 3D model by a computer-directed heat laser. 3D
CAD data of a new product or prototype component is
sliced into layers, and the lasers sinter (melt) the powder
layer by layer. Additional powder is deposited on top of
each solidified layer and again sintered.
The process is self-supporting and parts can
therefore be nested together. The ‘selective’ nature
of the lasers enable complex geometries to be
achieved without compromising on functionality.
SLS provides the highest level of functionality
combined with speed that is currently available.
We are uniquely able to build
prototypes on both EOS
and 3D Systems machines,
boasting some of the world’s
largest SLS machines - four
EOS P700/730s, two EOS P380’s and a 3D Systems HiQ
2500 Plus - thus enabling us to provide the optimal
machine to meet our customers’ requirements. Large
parts are built in single pieces up to a build volume
of 700x380x580mm on the P700/730’s; the reduced
need for joints and post-assembly dramatically
increasing their functionality.
www.3trpd.co.uk
The P380’s allow
parts to be built up to 620x340x340mm, and smaller
parts with finer detail can be produced on the DTM.
What are the finishing options?
The layer based construction techniques
of SLS offer significant benefits in terms of build
speed, however it can sometimes give a
stepped surface finish.
From a purely functional
aspect this is seldom a problem, however
from the aesthetic perspective they may require
additional finishing.
Our skilled team of
finishers combine the
functionality of SLS
parts with high quality
aesthetics, with minimal time added to the delivery.
Providing a range of finishing techniques from simply
adding a colour or highlighting certain areas, to fully
finished marketing models, a finished prototype can
play a vital role in functionality testing, securing tender
bids, design verification and marketing photography.
Furthermore, we have pioneered a low cost method
of improving the visual impact of our prototype
components with a revolutionary colouring
process.
Single parts or large batches can be
supplied in a range of standard colours. Requiring
no surface dressing, this post-process is usually
covered by a flat charge irrespective of parts count.
Assemblies become
clearer and resilience to
handling discolouration is enhanced, giving a far
better communication of design intent.