What is SLM and how does the manufacturing process work?
In selective laser melting (SLM), a metal powder is melted locally by a laser beam to build up a component layer by layer.
Preferred data formats:
- STL-File
- All common CAD export formats by arrangement
Maximum size:
90 x 90 x 80 mm
Layer thickness:
The different powder layers are in the range of 0.025 mm during powder application (coating).
Construction material:
The LaserCUSING process is used here; the following materials are supported
- Steel (standard material: 1.4404/316L austenitic, stainless)
- Aluminium
- Titanium alloy (Ti6Al4V)
Supporting material:
The supporting material is also the powder from which the component is made. Therefore, support structures are also built from identical component material. These support constructions serve as support for overhanging areas, as well as for the dissipation of the heat introduced by the powder melting process.
Post-processing:
The post-processing of the components plays an essential role in the SLM process. First, the additively built blank must be separated from the building platform and the supporting structure removed. Then, depending on the requirements of the component, functional surfaces or bores must be conventionally reworked to the required precision and surface quality.
