Abstract: Apparatus (1) for manufacturing a three-dimensional object from a powder, the apparatus comprising: a work surface (170); a build bed (201) having a build area (190), the build area (190) being comprised within the work surface (170), wherein successive layers of said three-dimensional object are formed in the build bed (201); a first powder supply module (2) fixedly arranged on a first side of the work surface (170), outward from a first side of the build bed (201); a second powder supply module (3) fixedly arranged on a second side of the work surface (170), outward from a second side of the build bed (201); a first powder distribution sled (300) operable to distribute powder dosed to the work surface (170) from the first powder supply module (2) while moving in a first direction from the first side of the work surface (170) towards the second side of the work surface (170), and from the second powder supply module (3) while moving in a second direction from the second side of the work surface (170) towards

Abstract: A method for the manufacture of three-dimensional objects is disclosed, utilising an independently operable printing sled (350) for sintering fusible powder and an independently operable powder distribution sled (300) for depositing a layer of fusible powder on the sintered layer. Since the printing sled and the powder distribution sled are independently operable, the time between sintering and deposition can be altered, dependent on the printing conditions and materials, resulting in an enhanced bond between the layers of the three-dimensional object.