How to Orient Models in SLS 3D Printing for Stronger, Cleaner Results

SLS 3D printing is known for producing sharp, high-quality parts with impressive precision. But like all additive manufacturing processes, it’s influenced by gravity and heat during production. While selective laser sintering manages these challenges by using unsintered powder to support the part, orientation still plays a key role in determining part strength and surface quality. Even with the near isotropic properties of SLS, your parts will often be stronger along certain axes and weaker along others. Similarly, sharp edges and precise features will appear cleaner in one direction while slightly smoothed in another. Large parts must also be positioned carefully to avoid excess heat buildup, which can cause warping. Let’s look at why orientation matters and how to position your models for the best possible results from SLS 3D printing. Why orientation matters in SLS 3D printing Part orientation is often ignored during design but it directly affects print quality. Correc...