Nexa3D QLS 230

The Nexa3D QLS 230 is an SLS 3D printer from Nexa3D with a 230 x 230 x 230 mm build volume.

Specifications

Nexa3D QLS 230: Technical Overview

Technology and Laser Source

The Nexa3D QLS 230 uses Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) with a 30 W CO₂ laser, optimised for consistent sintering of a broad range of polymer powders: PA12, PA11, PBT, PP, TPU, and metal powders via headmade materials' Cold Metal Fusion (CMF) technology.

QLS (Quantum Laser Sintering) Technology

Nexa3D's "Quantum Laser Sintering" terminology refers to an optimised laser and chamber control algorithm designed for minimal cooling time and stable part mechanical properties. The full cycle of 24 hours includes only 2 hours of cooling: significantly shorter than most SLS systems.

Build Volume.

Calibration

Nexa3D QLS 230: Calibration

1. Chamber Heating and Stabilisation

Preheat the chamber to the operating temperature for the selected material (PA12: ~170 °C; PP: ~160 °C) without loaded powder. Wait for full stabilisation: 45–60 minutes. Expected result: uniform temperature ±3 °C. Tip: do not skip this step when switching materials: each powder requires a different operating temperature.

2. Powder Check and Drying.

Common defects

Nexa3D QLS 230: Common Defects and Remediation

Warping

Long flat parts cooled too quickly will curve after removal. Particularly likely with PP and PA11 compared to PA12. Fix: observe the 2-hour cooling cycle; do not open the chamber early; angle flat parts relative to the XY plane.

Under-Fusing (Weak Structure)

Parts are brittle and fail under load: indicates insufficient laser power or below-optimal chamber temperature, more likely with new or non-standard powders.

What it is used for

Nexa3D QLS 230: Use Cases

Suitable Applications

Functional Prototyping: SLS produces isotropic, support-free parts with mechanical properties close to injection moulding: ideal for iterative functional prototyping in an office environment.

Medical Devices: PA11 and certified headmade materials biocompatible powders enable production of medical components and orthopaedic aids.