SLS parts are isotropic, ~100% dense and hit 45 MPa (PA12) to 89 MPa (PA802CF) tensile strength. Materials are certified and traceable per batch. For end use in machines, medical devices or consumer products, SLS is the industrial standard. Prototypes and series in the same material, no switch when you scale up.
Why SLS can carry the load
The thermal process is the key. The bed sits at ~170-175 °C, just below the melting point of PA12. The laser only has to add the last few degrees of energy. Result: layer density 98-100%, practically no voids between layers.
That translates directly to strength. SLS PA12 hits 45 MPa, comparable to injection-moulded PA12 (~50 MPa). FDM PA12 sits at ~35 MPa and is anisotropic (weaker in Z).
Which materials you can deploy
PA12 – 45 MPa, 18% elongation. Standard for most functional parts.
PA11 – 54 MPa, 31% elongation. For repeated flex, snap-fits, hinges and impact.
Carbon LW – 56 MPa, 2x stiffer than PA12 (E-mod 4,000 MPa). For parts that must not deflect.
PA802CF – 89 MPa, carbon fibre on PA11. Highest tensile, also CO₂-neutral.
TPU 1301 – Shore A 86, 250% elongation. For flexible seals and dampers.
Where SLS proves itself
Our customers put SLS into production for automotive aftermarket (dashboard mounts, air routing), industrial robotics (grippers, cable chains), medical devices (surgical handles, patient-specific jigs), machine build (cable management, sensor housings) and consumer products (sports, instruments, IoT).
Not sure if your case fits? Upload your file or send a description. We chat through material choice, orientation and expected performance.