The process starts with a coating head that deposits a very thin layer (typically 0.08 mm) of the powder material, PA12 or TPU, on the construction platform. After the deposition of a first layer, a second moving head applies the agents on the part geometry that will delimit the area to be sintered by a melting unit incorporated in the head itself.
Once the entire cross-section has been scanned, the construction platform lowers a layer thickness in height. The unsintered powder remains in place to support subsequent layers, eliminating the need for support structures.
The coating head deposits a new layer of powder on top of the previous, already sintered layer, and the head with the agents and the melter makes a new run to sinter the new section on top of the previously solidified ones. This process is repeated until all the parts are completely manufactured.
The result is a container full of powder and solidified parts that must be left to cool for at least 24 hours before being removed.