igus® is a full-service provider of 3D print solutions, meaning we develop and engineer our own materials to create long-lasting, wear-resistant parts. Our print lab at our North American headquarters in East Providence, Rhode Island is home to two SLS printers, and we make it easy for you to order your components online.

Here, we’ll talk more about why our 3D print service is useful for engineers, what makes it unique, and the benefits of our SLS printing materials.

Why is the igus® 3D print service useful for engineers?

Some engineers have parts that are in the early stages of product development, which could require multiple design changes over time. Therefore, investing in tooling for an injection mold or waiting weeks or months for parts to arrive isn’t always a feasible option. That’s why we print robust, wear-resistant parts that can be used for testing in applications; plus, engineers receive them within 2-3 business days.

We also have customers who only need a few hundred or thousand or even just 20 parts per year. The 3D print service is a quick, convenient solution to provide them with wear-resistant components.

What makes the service unique?

If engineers don’t have a fully developed design ready to upload, they can use our online configuration tools to create rollers, gears, bearings, and more. From there, they can download a STEP file of their design and upload it directly into the 3D print service.

Typically, 3D printing production methods have virtually no design limitations. For us, the only limitation is the size of the components. They need to be able to fit within a print bed of 170mm x 220mm x 320mm and have a minimal wall thickness of 0.7mm. Besides that, there are no other constraints.

Benefits of igus® SLS printing materials

All of our SLS powders offer the same benefits as our iglide® bearing materials. They are self-lubricating, maintenance-free, corrosion-resistant and rigorously tested to offer an extended service life.

We currently offer three SLS materials:

iglide® I3

  • Most universal
  • Color: yellow
  • Extremely wear-resistant
  • Ideal for gear applications
  • Suitable for applications in automotive interiors

iglide® I6

  • Color: white
  • Abrasion resistant
  • Robust
  • FDA/EU compliant for use around food

iglide® I8

  • Color: black
  • ESD protection
  • Abrasion resistant

To learn more about the wear rates of our SLS-printed components, check out this white paper. You can also contact us here with any questions.