Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) is a type of 3D printing mainly used for making real parts, not just prototypes. Instead of melting plastic like some other methods, SLS uses a laser to heat and fuse tiny particles of plastic powder together, layer by layer, until the part is complete. This method is great for making parts that are complex or need to be customized a lot.
SLS machines can make big parts because they have large print beds. The parts they make are strong and consistent in strength from all directions, which is handy for testing how well they work.
Because SLS doesn't need expensive molds or tools like traditional manufacturing methods, it's often a more affordable option, especially for making a small number of parts (less than 1,000).
Overall, SLS is a smart choice for making real parts without breaking the bank. It's good for testing ideas before committing to expensive molds and tools.