Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) has been in existence for many years. It is another layer-based process, but instead of using a liquid or extrusion, it works with a bed of thermoplastic powder. Each layer of fresh powder is sintered (slightly melted) together using a high-power laser. Then a fresh layer of powder is rolled onto the surface so that the process can be repeated for the next cross-section. The imaging is vector-based, so it can be quite accurate. SLS parts are typically very strong, and exhibit material properties that come close to the base material. They are an excellent choice for parts requiring strength and toughness. The weaknesses of SLS are its inability to do fine details and its surface roughness.

FineLine offers this service using the latest technology—the SinterStation Pro—that offers a step up in quality from the older equipment.