Additive Manufacturing in Industrial Applications
Currently, several technologies are being used, each one with its advantages and disadvantages, and unique post-processing requirements. Among these technologies, SLS 3D printing is an excellent choice for producing end-use parts and prototyping. It is a viable option for industries using conventional manufacturing technologies like CNC machining that incur a lot of cost and time. 3D printing is an addition or a substitute for CNC that is fast and cost-effective.
SLS 3D printing fuels innovation and designs ingenuity by allowing complex assemblies to be manufactured with fewer steps speeding production and lowering cost. It has great untapped potential that has yet to be explored. Learn more about the process and its post-processing options below.
What is Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)?
Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) The SLS 3D printer uses a laser as an energy source that selectively melts powdered plastic material, fusing them into a 3D printed part. This technology is part of Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF), one of the most advanced and reliable technologies in the 3D printing field of additive manufacturing.
Using 3D data from a CAD model, the laser melts the plastic material exactly at the predefined areas in the powder bed of the additive manufacturing system. After the melting process is completed, the building platform is lowered, and a new layer of powder is added. This process repeats layer by layer until the part is completed.
Unlike other additive technologies, SLS does not require support structures. SLS 3D printers are also completely autonomous. Once the printing has started, it does not require any kind of supervision.
Why Finish SLS Printed Parts?
Smooth Surfaces: Mechanical, chemical, and polishing processes can reduce the Ra value of printed parts, resulting in a smoother surface.
Surface Preparation: Coatings require smooth and consistent surfaces for the best results.
Color: Selective Laser Sintered parts have a monotone bright white color. The natural color can be changed using a dye bath or painting. Dye colors are standard, while paint color matches are possible.
Water or UV Resistance: Painting, Sealants, and Smoothing techniques make part surfaces less porous and increase water and UV resistance.
SLS 3D Printing Parts Post-Processing Options
Tumbling
Mechanical Smoothing through vibratory polishing involves a large tub of media that gradually wears down the peaks on the rough surface. The process is ideal for large orders requiring smoothing on non-fragile parts.
Process Notes:
- Smoothing is only possible on the surface media can access
- Multiple parts are processed together, making it an economically viable option for low-volume production
- Sharp edges become rounded, while small features may be damaged
- Part surfaces are easily coated, painted, or stained after tumbling
- The resulting surface is close to an eggshell finish
Vapor Finish
A post-process that delivers sealed and washable parts with much smoother surfaces than a natural print. This process requires sophisticated software that considers material properties, geometry, and desired surface finish. It ensures reproducible results for complex shapes and internal surfaces. The smoothing material is fully extracted and does not negate any biocompatibility of food contact certificates that may apply to the raw material. Other benefits include:
- Seals parts against ingress and egress of fluids.
- Deeper and more consistent colors if dyed.
- Improved surface finish and smoother complex internal cavities.
- Improved ultimate tensile strength, yield stress, and elongation at Break.
- Enhanced cleanability and reduced bacterial growth.
- Part surfaces are more easily coated, and painted after polishing.
Dyeing
The porosity of SLS parts makes it possible to color the parts using an immersion bath. It ensures complete coverage of all internal and external surfaces. Typically, the dye only penetrates the part down to a depth of around 0.5 mm, which means any deeper will reveal the original powder color.
Coating
Professional painting services and color matching is possible for SLS parts. The following type of coatings are possible:
- Surface finish options such as sanding and prime
- Acrylic aerosol paints
- Professional painting including color match
- Coatings to enhance Electrostatic Discharge “ESD” properties
- Coatings for EMI “electromagnetic interference “and RFI “radio-frequency interference protection
3D Printing Service & Innovative Solutions Provider
Anubis 3D is proud to be a leading additive manufacturer-3D printing service provider. We specialize in rapid End of Arm Tooling (EOAT) and On-Demand industrial plastic components.
We have years of experience working with clients who operate in several industries. No matter the complexity of your project, our team will be able to provide you with an innovative solution.
Work with us on an upcoming project. Get in touch with our team to learn more about how we can help.
