3D printing with Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)
SLS is one of the most robust additive manufacturing processes.
This is a well-developed additive manufacturing process that can be used for both prototyping and small batch production. Click here to read our latest SLS Case Study.
Benefits of using SLS for 3D Printing
The distinct advantage of SLS is that the part is fully self-supporting. This allows for extremely complex geometry to be achieved, something that could not have been created in any other way.
- No need for structural supports.
- Parts can be created out of a selection of nylon materials.
- High accuracy, +/-0.12mm per 100mm depending on geometry
- Capable of producing intricate detail and thin walls, 1mm is ideal.
- Materials certified for use in aerospace, medical and food applications.
- Fully functional plastic parts.
- High tensile strength.
- Fast build times.
- Mechanical properties of Nylon parts.
IT’S TIME TO CHALLENGE OGLE
The Ogle team love a challenge! Think you’ve got a project that could test the team? Get in touch:+44 (0) 1462 682 661
The SLS process
An Argon laser traces the required shape from a 3D CAD model via an .STL file across a compacted powder bed of material. As the laser interacts with the first layer of powder, it is fused – or sintered – to form a prerequisite shape.
When each layer is completed, the powder bed drops down fractionally to enable to next layer of powder to meet the laser, to then sinter and bond to the previous layer.
ColourPro for SLS
After extensive in-house R&D, Ogle have developed a completely new vibrant colour range for models and prototypes using the Laser Sintering (LS) 3D printing process. This process provides a viable and cost-effective alternative to paint finished for LS models that require a non-cosmetic colour finish.
Working with Ogle
Ogle has a tremendous amount of experience building parts using the SLS process, and can work with clients to achieve the optimum design and build parameters – delivering the best possible results.
“We really enjoyed working with the team at Ogle, their professionalism, the quality and overall experience was superb. One of the great things about Ogle is their technology, and the precision of their machines, which can be seen clearly in the seven concept models for Honda.”
– Scott Barwick, Design Associate at Map and Mori Inc.
In-house SLS capabilities at Ogle
Ogle employ three SLS machines; EOS P100, EOS P385 and EOS P730. Build layers range from 0.1mm to 0.15mm depending on the machine that is chosen. The maximum build volume is 679 x 368 x 567mm.
With a C02 30w laser, the P100 runs at a build speed of up to 20mm height per hour, ideal for the direct manufacture of production parts, spares and functional prototypes in nylon.
Materials for SLS include, but are not limited to:
Polyamide PA 2200, PA 2210 Fire Retardant, Glass-filled Fine Polyamide PA 3200.
If your project requires a different material, just ask the team and they will quickly source alternatives.
SLS paint & finishing options
The sky really is the limit for your SLS part. From the colour, texture or design effect, Ogle’s dedicated paint facility with a full-sized finished booth 6.25 x 3.9 x 2.5m and highly-skilled team create stunning and visually accurate models and prototypes to within +0.05mm of the design.
IT’S TIME TO CHALLENGE OGLE
The Ogle team love a challenge! Think you’ve got a project that could test the team? Get in touch:+44 (0) 1462 682 661
