As SLS 3D printing is getting more popular, we share our insights, tips, and tricks for you to use.
Case StudiesWith a four-figure installation worldwide of Sinterit's 3D printers, here you can find some of our client's stories.
SLS TechnologyGrasp the basic knowledge about SLS. Your journey starts here.
WebinarsCheck the latest webinars about our products, SLS technology and more
EbooksDownload special ebooks about SLS 3D printing technology
Powder | Tensile Strength (X) [MPa] | Flexural Strength (X) [MPa] | Elongation at Break (X) [%] | Heat Deflection Temp A (1.8 MPa) [°C] | Refresh Ratio [%] |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
PA12 Industrial | 47.61 | 62.31 | 5.86 | 51 | 30 |
PA12 Smooth | 38.44 | 49.18 | 4.55 | 50 | 22 |
PA11 Onyx | 55.00 | 54.20 | 31.60 | 47 | 33 |
PA11 Carbon Fiber | 65.93 | 87.35 | 8.23 | 167 | 40 |
PA11 ESD | 50.00 | 56.00 | 28.00 | 103 | 60 |
Polypropylen (PP) | 19.30 | 25.60 | 44.40 | 50 | 50 |
PBT Optimal | 49.04 | 52.08 | 2.56 | 52 | 20 |
Flexa Performance | 7.99 | – | 182.63 | – | 20 |
1. Tensile Strength
Indicates the maximum stress a material can withstand when stretched before breaking. For the user, this shows how resistant to pulling or tension the printed part will be – crucial for clips, housings, and structural elements.
2. Flexural Strength
Measures how much bending force a material can handle before failing. Important for slender or beam-like parts that may be bent or flexed in use.
3. Elongation at Break
Tells you how much the material can stretch before it breaks – a measure of flexibility or ductility. A high value = flexible and impact-resistant parts. A low value = stiff and brittle.
4. Heat Deflection Temperature A (HDT A)
This shows the temperature at which a material starts to deform under pressure. High HDT means the part is suitable for high-temperature environments, such as engine compartments or electronic housings.
5. Refresh Ratio
Describes how much fresh powder needs to be added to used material to maintain print quality. Lower values = more cost-effective and sustainable powder usage.
PA12 Industrial
Well-balanced mechanical performance. Great strength and moderate flexibility.
Best for: functional prototypes, mechanical parts, everyday engineering applications.
PA12 Smooth
Slightly lower strength than Industrial, but with a lower refresh ratio. Great value for budget-conscious users.
Best for: concept models, parts with fine surface details, general prototyping.
PA11 Onyx
High flexibility (31.6%) with solid strength.
Strong but more forgiving than rigid fibers.
Best for: snap fits, live hinges, parts requiring impact resistance.
PA11 Carbon Fiber
Top performer in all mechanical and thermal categories.
Stiff, heat-resistant, and durable.
Best for: end-use parts in engineering, automotive, motorsports, and industrial settings.
PA11 ESD
Balanced strength and high flexibility, plus ESD protection.
Best for: electronic casings, enclosures, and ESD-safe tooling.
Polypropylene (PP)
Lower strength, but very flexible and chemically resistant.
Best for: lightweight, chemical-exposed parts like tanks, tubes, or lab tools.
PBT Optimal
Rigid and precise, with low ductility.
Best refresh ratio = economical for short-run production.
Best for: technical precision parts, clips, electrical connectors.
Flexa Performance
Ultra-flexible, stretchable, and durable.
Best for: seals, dampers, soft mechanisms, cushioning components.
Tensile Strength
PA11 Carbon Fiber (65.93 MPa) ➡
Offers the highest resistance to pulling forces – ideal for structural, load-bearing components.
Flexural Strength
PA11 Carbon Fiber (87.35 MPa) ➡
Delivers excellent resistance to bending – perfect for parts like brackets, frames, and housings.
Elongation at Break
Flexa Performance (182.63%) ➡
Extremely flexible – recommended for hinges, seals, and impact-absorbing elements.
Heat Deflection Temperature A (HDT A)
PA11 Carbon Fiber (167 °C) ➡
Withstands high temperatures – great for technical or automotive applications.
Refresh Ratio
PBT Optimal (20%) ➡
Most cost-efficient in powder reuse – ideal for economical prototyping workflows.