Selective Laser Melting

Selective Laser Melting (SLM) and EBSM/EBM (Electron Beam Melting metal 3D printing) share similar technical principles, utilizing laser irradiation to pre-diffuse metal powder and form metal components. The difference lies in the heat source.
Selective Laser Melting technology (metal 3D printing) employs finely focused spots to rapidly melt pre-set powder materials with a particle size of 300-500 mesh, ensuring perfect metallurgical bonding for nearly any shape and functional component. Achieving densities close to 100%, size accuracy within 20-50 micrometers, and surface roughness of 20-30 micrometers. This promising rapid prototyping technique has expanded into aerospace, medical, automotive, mold, and other fields.

SLM Technology Schematic

Working Principle:

Initially, design a 3D solid model of the part using software like Pro/E, UG, CATIA, or others. The 3D model is then sliced and layered into each section using software to obtain contour data. Fill scan paths are generated from this contour data. Based on these filled scan paths, a laser beam is selected to melt metal powder material in each layer, gradually stacking them to form a 3D metal part.
With direct metal laser sintering, customers only need to provide the relevant data format. Single layers are connected and solidified through laser high-temperature sintering, while sub-layers are connected layer by layer through a powder feeding device. This innovative technology is carried out in a processing chamber protected by inert gas to prevent metal reactions with other gases at high temperatures.
Due to the energy and residual stresses generated during sintering, the component must be connected to a fixed baseplate via support structures to prevent warping deformation.