SLS and Printhead-Based PBF Materials

Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) is a versatile 3D printing technology, often used for functional prototyping, small-batch production and end-use parts. SLS parts can be found in airplanes, wearables, machine components, production tools and more. With SLS, a laser fuses together polymer powder particles, building a part layer by layer. This print method is best for producing high-accuracy functional prototypes and parts with complex geometries. Since the powder supports the part as it’s printed, no additional supports are needed.

With High-Speed Sintering (HSS) PBF (Powder Bed Fusion) a thin layer of powder is applied to a building platform. An inkjet print head moves over the entire surface of the platform, depositing an infrared-absorbing fluid directly onto the powder where fusing is desired. The build area is then illuminated with infrared light, fusing the powder under the fluid into a layer.

PBT Material – Addigy® P1210

PBT powder for selective laser sintering (SLS) with excellent dielectric properties. With production readiness extensively proven by an independent global manufacturing leader. Wide sinter window. High re-use rate; recyclable to the extent that the material can be brought back to the powder bed process.

TPC Material – Addigy® P3001

Soft elastomeric material for SLS printing with very high energy return of >70%. Certified ISO 10993-5 Cytotoxicity, ISO 10995-10 Irritation & Sensitization. Meets requirements of Toy Safety Directive 2009/48/EC. Easy to process without common side effects such as odors. For footwear, sporting goods as well as industrial applications.

TPU Materials – Addigy® PPU 83A X1, PPU 86A W6, and PPU 90A X6

Range of thermoplastic polyurethane powders for SLS and HSS PBF, with varying properties to accommodate applications across industries.

Overview of the Addigy® Powders

Material Base Polymer PBF technology Shore Hardness Key Benefits Applications
Addigy® P1210 Polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) SLS N/A High stiffness.
High thermal resistance.
Improved dimensional stability due to lower moisture uptake.
Connectors.
Automotive electronics.
Electrical housing.
Addigy® P3001 Thermoplastic copolyester (TPC) SLS 88A Soft elastomer material with high elastic rebound.
Biocompatibility: ISO certified for cytotoxicity, skin irritation & sensitization.
Elastomeric material with broad temperature usage range.
Footwear (midsoles/insoles).
Protective gear (sports guards).
Parts requiring biocompatibility approval.
Addigy® PPU 83A X1 Ether-based thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) SLS/HSS 83A Softest SLS material on the market.
Soft-touch surface.
Formulated with TPU grade passing ISO cytotoxicity.
Footwear (insoles/outsoles).
Orthotics & prosthetics.
Gasket & sealings.
Addigy® PPU 86A W6 Aliphatic ether-based thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) SLS/HSS 85-89A Color stability: no yellowing under UV light.
Hot air and hydrolytic stability.
Good elastic rebound.
Automotive components (interior/exterior).
Industrial soft tools (jigs/fixtures).
Footwear (midsoles).
Addigy® PPU 90A X6 Ether-based thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) SLS/HSS 90A Resistance to saltwater stress cracking.
Hydrolytic stability.
Formulated with TPU grade passing ISO cytotoxicity.
Orthopedic insoles.
Industrial components (seals/gaskets).
Protective jackets (e.g., flexible shielding).