3D Systems SLS 380

The 3D Systems SLS 380 is an SLS 3D printer from 3D Systems with a 381 x 330 x 460 mm build volume.

Specifications

3D Systems SLS 380: Technical Specifications

Build Volume

The SLS 380 offers a build volume of 381 × 330 × 460 mm: sufficient for dense nesting of hundreds of small parts or production of medium-sized functional components in a single build.

Laser System

CO₂ laser optimised for PA 11, PA 12, and specialised polymers; scan speed and power are tuned for a build rate of up to 2.7 litres/hour. Layer thickness: 80–150 µm.

IR Thermal Camera (key differentiator)

An integrated high-resolution IR sensor captures over 100,000 thermal data points per second inside the build chamber.

Calibration

Calibration Procedures

• IR Camera Calibration: Before a production run, verify the IR camera against reference thermal bodies. Target deviation < ±1 °C. Tip: Calibrate at every material changeover and when ambient temperature changes significantly.
• 8-Zone Thermal Profile: Configure the zonal profile for the specific material in 3D Sprint. Target: < ±2 °C variation at steady state. Tip: Archive approved profiles for ISO traceability.

3.

Common defects

Common Defects on 3D Systems SLS 380

Warping: Despite 8-zone IR control, severe warping can appear with degraded powder or extremely asymmetric geometry. Fix: review the IR thermal map; orient asymmetric parts symmetrically; increase virgin powder fraction.

Porosity: Internal voids (visible via CT or on a fractured cross-section) from insufficient laser energy or incorrect thermal profile. Fix: increase Energy Density; verify the IR zonal profile.

What it is used for

Applications and Limitations

Best suited for:

• Serial production with lot-to-lot repeatability requirements: the closed-loop IR system is essential for medical and aerospace parts.
• Biocompatible PA 11 parts: direct-use without post-processing for clinical devices.
• Flame-retardant components (FR materials) for aviation interiors and electrical enclosures.