Sinterit has just launched its Powder Handling Station (PHS), an accompaniment to SLS printers, designed to make post-processing and powder recovery as clean as possible. As the first company to introduce benchtop SLS technology, Sinterit have a reputation for breaking ground in the democratisation of 3D printing. Keeping with this, its PHS is targeted at all additive manufacturing professionals. The device can be used in conjunction with several printers at once, including small, bench-top SLS 3D printers like the Lisa PRO. As such, Sinterit’s PHS has made it easier than ever for one person to handle the whole SLS 3D printing process.
Since being founded in 2014, the Polish company has been dedicated to creating accessible 3D printing solutions that are both advanced and affordable. During their time on the market, Sinterit has delivered two high quality SLS 3D printers, its own software, and a whole set of auxiliary devices to fulfil the needs of additive manufacturing professionals. Earlier this year, the release of Sinterit’s ATEX Vacuum Cleaner with powder separator, dedicated powder tools, and new, bigger Sandblaster for post-processing the printouts, was a huge step towards making this solution more comprehensive. With the addition of the Powder Handling station, Sinterit offers the most complete benchtop SLS ecosystem on the market.
Close up of the Powder Handling Station, Photo Credit: Sinterit
As customer experience is central to Sinterit’s strategy, creating a user-friendly and ergonomic design was a key priority in the development of the PHS. All processes, from print preparation, to post-processing, to powder refresh and recovery, are kept in one place and can be completed more efficiently than ever. The worktop is equipped with a suction hole that speeds up depowdering, as well as a detachable two-metre long suction hose connected to the ATEX vacuum decreasing the time needed to clean the workspace. During post-processing, unsintered powder is automatically transported into the sieving module fitted beneath the worktop and prepared for future use.
Sinterit specialises in Selective Laser Sintering, or SLS, a popular additive manufacturing technology. SLS uses powdered sinterable polymers, like TPE. While the printing time is longer than stereolithography (SLA) and fused deposition modelling (FDM), SLS printers are able to print high precision moveable parts without any support structures. The applications of SLS are also more extensive than those of SLA and FDM: ranging from functional, movable prototypes that can be tested in wind tunnels or pass other experimental testing, to final components printed in low or moderate volumes. More uses of SLS, include fit parts in assemblies, snap fits and hinges, rapid tooling, patterns, cores and moulds for casting and moulding, product concept models, and medical and dental implants. It is also used for education needs, both by researchers and academics to teach students. Due to its extensive applications and relative affordability, SLS is well-suited to Sinterit’s endeavour to provide accessible benchtop 3D printing solutions. You can find out more on Sinterit’s website.
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