SLM metal components: Precision and strength from the 3D printer

Precise and strong metal components from the 3D printer

Selective laser melting is an advanced technology for manufacturing complex metal components directly from digital data.


In contrast to selective laser sintering, which works with plastic, SLM uses fine metal powder to produce components with outstanding mechanical properties and high density. Let's take a look at the steps of the SLM process from data preparation to post-processing of the finished parts:

Data preparation

First of all, we need your 3D CAD data, ideally in STEP or STL format. Data security is very important to us, which is why your data is treated with the utmost care and security. For SLM, we break down the digital model into layers that serve as a template for the laser. 

Production

The actual production process is largely automated. A thin layer of metal powder is evenly distributed in a specially preheated installation space. A powerful laser selectively melts the powder according to the specified layer pattern. New powder is applied after each layer and the process is repeated until the component is finished.

Post-processing

After printing, the component is removed from the powder bed and subjected to heat treatment to reduce internal stresses and improve the mechanical properties. Depending on the customer's requirements, further steps such as deburring, grinding and polishing follow to achieve the desired surface quality.

Our reference products: Technology - Metal 3D Printing

Bike Bracket
Material: Aluminium

Pump Casing
Material: SS17-4PH

Open Impeller
Material: SS316L

Materials

We offer a wide range of metals for the SLM process, including:

Aluminium

Cobalt chromium alloys

Stainless steel alloys

Titanium

Finishing of the components


On request, we offer various finishing options for your SLM components, including:


  • Sandblasting
  • Heat treatment
  • Powder coating
  • Mechanical finishing