Rapid Prototyping
Fast functional samples for fit checks, design validation, testing, and customer demos.
Explore SLS prototyping servicesChina-based SLS manufacturing partner for engineering teams
Functional nylon SLS prototypes and low-volume production
Selective laser sintering (SLS) produces self-supporting polymer parts layer by layer without separate support structures. TPM3D reviews each CAD file, material, quantity, finish, inspection need, and delivery target before confirming manufacturability, price, and schedule.
DFM
CAD and requirements review before quoting
By RFQ
quantity confirmed for each RFQ
PA12 / PA11
industrial nylon materials
Global
DHL and UPS delivery
Shanghai engineering team
DFM review before production
Project-specific schedule
Prototype and batch RFQs
Customer Experience
Selected Companies Served by TPM3D Group
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Manufacturing scope
SLS services built around engineering decisions
Find the right SLS process, material and finish for your application before production.
Small Batch Production
Bridge production and low-volume nylon parts without the time and cost of injection molds.
Explore low-volume SLS production
Post-Processing
Dyeing, smoothing, polishing, painting, and assembly-ready finishing options.
Explore SLS finishing servicesMaterial guide
Choose the right SLS nylon before quoting
Compare PA12, PA11 and PA12GB before sending your drawings for engineering review.
Compare all materialsMaterialBest forKey value
Nylon PA12General functional partsCommon starting point; confirm the current grade and TDSNylon PA11Parts needing more ductility or impact toleranceReview grade, orientation, conditioning, and test needsPA12GBParts where added stiffness may be usefulGlass-filled grade; confirm finish and dimensional requirementsFlexible / special materialsElastic or application-specific requirementsAvailability and suitability confirmed during engineering reviewApplications
Industry entry points for qualified SLS leads
AutomotiveClips, ducts, brackets, test fixturesMedicalOrthosis models, ergonomic supports, custom toolsAerospaceLightweight ducts, housings, complex prototypesDrones and UAVsFrames, motor mounts, protective coversRoboticsEnd-effectors, grippers, functional assembliesConsumer ProductsWearables, housings, display models
Case studies
Proof for buyers who need parts, not promises
Medical
Spinal Orthosis Solution
Custom 3D printed spinal braces providing personalized solutions for scoliosis patients.
Read case
Medical
Medical Prosthetic Components
High-performance prosthetic components with lightweight design and excellent mechanical properties.
Read case
Industrial
Precision Small Parts Production
Batch production of precision small parts for multiple industry clients with complex geometries.
Read caseQuote workflow
From CAD file to shipped SLS parts
- 1
Send CAD files
STL, STEP, OBJ, or production drawings with material and quantity requirements.
- 2
Engineering review
DFM, wall thickness, tolerance, finish, and material checks before production.
- 3
SLS production
Powder bed fusion for complex nylon parts without support structures.
- 4
Finish and ship
Post-processing, inspection, packing, and global express delivery.
FAQ
Common Questions Before Starting an SLS Project
Content reviewed: 11 September 2026
What is selective laser sintering (SLS)?
Selective laser sintering (SLS) is a powder-bed fusion process that uses a laser to fuse polymer powder layer by layer. The surrounding powder supports the build, so many complex geometries can be produced without separate support structures, subject to wall thickness, escape holes, orientation, material, and finishing requirements.
When should engineers choose SLS 3D printing?
SLS is a practical option for functional prototypes, complex nylon geometries, and low-volume parts when avoiding dedicated support structures and injection tooling is valuable. It may not be the best choice when the project requires a mold-grade cosmetic surface, a material unavailable for SLS, or economics that favor established high-volume tooling.
How should PA12, PA11, and glass-filled nylon be selected?
Select the material from the application requirements, then compare the current grade data and relevant printed-part tests. Review stiffness, ductility, impact behavior, moisture exposure, temperature, surface finish, orientation, and inspection needs. Material-family names alone are not enough to confirm performance for a specific design.
What quantities can TPM3D review?
TPM3D reviews both prototype and batch RFQs. The practical quantity for one project depends on part size, build nesting, material, inspection, finishing, schedule, and target cost. Send the expected quantity or quantity breaks so the engineering team can confirm capacity and project-specific pricing.
How long does an SLS project take?
Lead time is confirmed after reviewing file readiness, quantity, material availability, nesting, machine schedule, cooling, post-processing, inspection, and destination. Include your required delivery date in the RFQ; TPM3D will confirm a project-specific production and shipping schedule rather than applying one timing claim to every order.
What information is needed for an SLS quote?
Send a CAD file such as STEP, STL, or OBJ together with quantity, material preference, surface finish, critical dimensions or tolerances, inspection requirements, application conditions, shipping destination, and target delivery date. If a material or tolerance is uncertain, identify the functional requirement for engineering review.
Start a project
Get an engineering-reviewed SLS quote
Send drawings, material requirements, quantity, surface finish, and target delivery date.