Selective laser sintering

A 3D-printing process that fuses plastic powder, usually nylon, with a laser, without needing support structures.

• The powder bed is heated to just below melting, so the laser adds only a little energy to fuse each cross-section.
• Unfused powder surrounds and supports the part, so overhangs need no scaffolding and many parts can be packed throughout the build.
• Nylon parts are tough enough for end use, such as brackets, ducts and custom fittings.
• Surfaces are slightly grainy, builds must cool for hours before unpacking, and only part of the leftover powder can be reused.