From concept to functional prototype without compromise

Research 3D printing refers to the use of additive manufacturing in scientific and engineering environments where experimentation, testing, and iteration are key. In this context, SLS allows researchers to move from digital concept to physical prototype quickly, reliably, and with full geometric freedom — enabling exploration and validation of ideas without reliance on tooling or external services.

A research material is typically used to test and evaluate behavior under controlled conditions. In additive manufacturing, this may include standard powders, modified formulations, or experimental blends analyzed for printability, sintering consistency, strength, or durability. With systems like Sinterit’s, researchers can adjust open parameters to suit specific experimental needs and gain deeper insight into material performance.

SLS technology offers exceptional stability and repeatability, making it ideal for studying powder behavior, thermal effects, and microstructure evolution. Its open parameters allow researchers to control the sintering process and tailor it to new materials or blends, while high-quality prints support precise post-analysis and mechanical validation.

SLS delivers mechanically strong, isotropic parts that require no support structures, making it more suitable for functional prototypes, test specimens, or integrated assemblies. Compared to FDM or SLA, it offers better surface quality, dimensional consistency, and design freedom, all of which are essential in research workflows focused on real-world validation.

Yes — one of the biggest advantages of SLS in R&D is the ability to print, test, and iterate within extremely short cycles. Teams can print multiple versions of a concept overnight, validate physical performance the next day, and adapt designs quickly — all without the delays or dependencies associated with outsourcing or tooling changes.

SLS is widely used in structural research, material development, functional testing, and integration studies. It supports applications in sectors such as medical devices, aerospace, robotics, and electronics — wherever physical testing, rapid iteration, or design freedom are important.

Absolutely. With Sinterit’s open parameters and stable thermal management, researchers can run controlled tests on new powders, evaluate powder reuse and sintering profiles, and generate accurate physical samples for tensile testing, microscopy, or process development. This flexibility makes it a valuable tool in any material science or process engineering lab.

Yes — SLS parts printed with materials like PA12 Industrial or PA11 Onyx offer real-world mechanical performance. This means they can be used not just for form or visual inspection, but also for fit testing, load-bearing scenarios, or endurance experiments, all of which are common in R&D environments.