SLS PA12 Nylon Parts | Functional Prototypes and Low-Volume Production

Project Overview

This project demonstrates the production of functional engineering components using SLS (Selective Laser Sintering) technology and PA12 nylon material.

The parts feature lightweight structures, excellent dimensional stability, and high design freedom, making them suitable for functional prototyping and low-volume production.

 

PA12 is the most widely used engineering nylon material for SLS additive manufacturing, offering an excellent balance of strength, dimensional stability, and production efficiency.

Property Test Standard Value
Heat Deflection Temperature @ 0.45 MPa ASTM D648 179°C
Heat Deflection Temperature @ 1.82 MPa ASTM D648 99°C
Tensile Strength ASTM D638 46 MPa
Tensile Modulus ASTM D638 1800 MPa
Elongation at Break ASTM D638 8–15%
Flexural Strength ASTM D790 50 MPa
Flexural Modulus ASTM D790 1300 MPa
Notched Izod Impact Strength ASTM D256 40 J/m
Unnotched Izod Impact Strength ASTM D256 350 J/m

Manufacturing Process

Technology

  • Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)

Material

  • PA12 Nylon

Surface Finish

  • As Printed White
  • Bead Blasting
  • Optional Dyeing

Why PA12

PA12 is one of the most widely used materials in industrial additive manufacturing.

Key advantages include:

  • Excellent dimensional stability
  • Good mechanical strength
  • Lightweight construction
  • Complex geometry capability
  • No support structures required
  • Suitable for functional prototypes

Functional Prototype Components

Complex functional assemblies can be produced as a single integrated component using SLS technology.

The design contains multiple ribs, hollow sections and enclosed structures that would be difficult or expensive to manufacture using traditional methods.

Batch Production Parts


SLS technology is ideal for low-volume production where tooling costs are not justified.

Multiple parts can be nested within a single build, providing excellent cost efficiency and fast turnaround times.

Typical Applications

  • Industrial Equipment
  • Robotics
  • Consumer Electronics
  • Automotive Prototypes
  • Mechanical Assemblies
  • Functional Testing

Design Advantages

Feature SLS PA12
Support Structures Not Required
Design Freedom High
Dimensional Stability Excellent
Mechanical Strength Good
Production Volume Low to Medium
Tooling Cost None

Project Information

Technology

  • SLS

Material

  • PA12 Nylon

Color

  • White

Application