SLS Material Options
NW Rapid Manufacturing's Selective Laser Sintering systems produce fully functional prototypes and lightweight products of any complexity using polyamide or polystyrene materials. The design parameters of your application will determine the material used, and most of the materials are specialized and/or derivations of nylon.
- Nylon 12
Our standard Nylon 12 material is ideal for most applications. It is lightweight, tough, flexible yet rigid, and economical. Nylon 12 is our choice for prototypes and production parts. Nylon 12 is in compliance with FDA, 21 CFR, §177.1500 9(b) except for alcoholic foodstuff. Nylon 12 has no porosity with wall thicknesses greater than 0.060” (1.5 mm), has exceptional chemical and fuel resistance, and can be used for fuel and liquid storage. We have examples that have held 10psi for longer than three years with no fuel loss. - Nylon 11
Our Nylon 11 material is used in applications that require slightly higher tensile strength at break along with a higher elongation factor. A true all-weather performer, it excels in extreme climates; it has a high impact resistance at sub-zero temperatures and high pressure resistance. It also possesses a low coefficient of friction. Nylon 11 is not biocompatible.- Available in white and black.
- Polystyrene
For the production of cast patterns we utilize a polystyrene material that has a low residual ash, and is easily processed after infiltration with wax. Nearly any metal can be investment cast, but typical materials include A356 Aluminum and Titanium alloys. - Custom Blends
Other off-the-shelf and custom blended materials including our Nylon/Carbon Fiber blend can be processed by special order.
Nylon 12 molecular structure.
Nylon 11 molecular structure.