(506) 2240-6804
Slm 3d printing
High-Quality Industrial Metal 3D Printers
High-Quality Industrial Metal 3D Printers | SLM Solutions SLM METAL AM Machines | SLM Solutions
INDUSTRIAL METAL AM MACHINES
SCROLL DOWN
THE 12-LASER FUTURE DRIVER
NXG XII 600
Transforming supply chains forever.
PUSH THE LIMITS
THE DUAL-LASER TRAILBLAZER
SLM®280 PS
Featuring multiple lasers, closed-loop powder handling and upgraded process control ideal for demanding applications requiring high productivity.
SEE IT IN ACTION
THE QUAD-LASER SPEED DEMON
SLM®500
The first quad-laser metal system on the market, SLM®500 can integrate lasers independently or in parallel to increase build rates by 90% over twin laser configurations.
QUAD SPEED
INDUSTRIAL SCALE DOUBLE-POWER
SLM®280 2.
Metal 3D printing with multiple lasers and closed-loop powder handling. The SLM®280 2.0 is ideal for medium to high volume metal additive manufacturing part production and prototypes.
LET'S GO THERE
THE HIGH ACHIEVER
SLM®800
The SLM®800 features an extended z-axis for large-scale production and the ability to connect multiple machines via the SLM HUB® opens new possibilities for serial production.
MORE HERE
THE LITTLE BIG HITTER
SLM®125
The SLM®125 is ideal for a variety of users, from rapid prototyping and low volume manufacturing to qualified series production and R&D.
LEARN MORE
FIRST
FIRST
DESIGNED WITH YOU IN MIND
Door-integrated glove boxes on all machines eliminate direct contact of powder by operators and maintains powder quality.
This holistic powder-handling approach also implements a double-valve system on all powder bottles and hoppers to ensure the complete separation of operator and exposed powder.
SPEAK TO OUR EXPERTS
Comprehensive monitoring and quality assurance enable a high degree of process documentation and verification. SLM® machines offer:
Melt Pool Monitoring (MPM) - Visualizing the melt pool, data from MPM can be used as a resource for efficiently developing and evaluating the process parameters. In the production of safety-critical parts, the data collected serves as documentation for quality assurance.
Laser Power Monitoring (LPM) - Continuously measures and documents target and actual emitted laser output throughout the production process.
Layer Control System (LCS) - A testing and documentation system that examines the performance of each powder layer by monitoring the powder bed and detecting possible coating irregularities.
+
The secret to SLM Solutions' success in supporting so many industries is our open architecture platform. Open architecture puts you in control to customize SLM® machines to fit your metal AM application.
Powder Variability - You are free to choose your powder in all machines. SLM Solutions carries a variety of metal alloy powder but our machines also allow you to use powder from your favorite supplier for maximum flexibility.
Open Process Parameters - Like any metal AM machine, SLM® machines come ready to print with standard parameter sets right out of the box. However, open architecture means you have access to open process parameters with full control of the parameters in the build processor and the material development module.
Variable Control - There is a total system variable control at all levels to suit your requirments.
+
We empower our customers, our teams and our industry with leading technology and the most advanced materials.
We give our teams the necessary tools to create cutting edge technology,
we give our clients the cutting edge technology to create their dreams,
and we give our industry the dreams to shape the future.
SLM Direct Metal 3D printing: Technology Overview
Direct metal 3D printing – also called Selective Laser Melting (SLM) – works similarly to selective laser sintering (SLS). In SLS a laser heats the powder but does not allow it to exceed its melting point, meanwhile, in direct metal 3d printing the melting point is exceeded. As a result, the printed metal parts have similar physical and mechanical properties as conventional metal parts. Therefore, the technology can be used to create realistic metal prototypes or small batch series of metal parts.
The technology is quite versatile and can be used with many different metals, however most aluminum, steel and titanium are the most commonly used.
History
Process
Applications
Material
Cost & Prices
Printers
History
Developed between 1995 and 1999 Direct metal 3D printing is a relatively young 3D printing technology.
Several companies and institutes worked on this technology at the same time. The first working printer working featuring laser melting technology was introduced in Karlsruhe, Germany in 1999.
The term ‘SLM’ was coined by the company SLM Solutions. SLM Solutions is a spin-off of several companies that were involved in the development of this technology. Today, SLM Solutions is one of the leading providers of metal 3D printers.
Patent drawing of the first SLM Machine from 1995
Direct Metal 3D Printing: Process
In a first step, metal powder is applied to a built platform. Once the material is evenly distributed, a laser selectively melts the first layer into the powder. The built platform lowers by one layer height (typically between 30 and 50 µm), a new layer of powder is subsequently applied to the platform, and the laser selectively melts the second layer of the model. Due to the melting process, the powder fuses with the layer below, so that step-by-step the model is created.
In laser sintering with PA12 (Nylon), the powder on the built platform is compacted by a thermic process. Therefore, the physical model can be created without the use of any support structures. In laser melting with metal powder, this compacting is not possible to the same extend, therefore support structures are required.
Example Direct Metal 3D printing. Source: YouTube, BEGO
Direct Metal 3D Printing Applications
Unlike other metal 3D printing technologies, the laser melting process creates parts which are mechanically comparable to conventionally produced metal parts. As a result the technology has been universally applied to both prototypes and small-series production of parts in the following industries:
- Aerospace
- Dentistry
- Medical Implants
- Automotive Components
- Jewelry
- Machine parts
Direct metal 3D printing allows easier fabrication of geometries which would be challenging or even impossible for conventional production methods.
Direct Metal 3D Printing: Materials
We offer the following choice of materials:
- Stainless Steel: Stainless steel combines great hardness and high ductility with corrosion resistance. It is suitable for parts requiring high strength.
- Aluminum: Aluminum is a light metal (density ~2.7 g/cm³) which can be easily processed. It is a good choice for parts requiring low weight with good strength.
- Titanium: High strength, low density, corrosion resistant and bio-compatible make titanium an excellent choice for applications in medical implants, jewelry, and aerospace.
More detailed information about these metals are available on our page 3D printed metals.
With direct metal 3D printing are even thin wall thicknesses possible (image: 0.3 mm)
Direct Metal 3D Printing: Cost & Prices
Direct Metal 3D printing is a state-of-the-art technology and requires sophisticated equipment.
Printers are thus expensive to both purchase and operate. The main cost factor for steel and aluminum is printing time and post-production time; material use is a less critical factor. For smaller pieces, the price of printing one item or printing multiple copies is often similar.
For Titanium the raw material cost is significantly higher than steel or aluminum. Therefore, the incremental cost for an additional copy of your part is higher than in aluminum or steel.
Due to the complexity of the technology, we do not offer instant pricing quotes for 3D printed metal parts. We kindly ask you to send us a manual request – we will get back to you within one business day.
Get a quote
Submit a manual quote, attaching your model (or a drawing), as well as the intended material and quantity. If you have questions, please contact us.
Direct Metal 3D Printing: Printers
Your parts will be produced on a Type SLM 280 HL machine from SLM Solutions – it has a maximum build space of 248 x 248 x 350 mm.
Printer SLM 280 HL by SLM Solutions GmbH
Get a price quote!
Upload your model for an instant price quote or send us a manual request.
Share this Page
SLM 3D printing technology
SLM (Selective Laser Melting) is an innovative technology for the production of complex products by laser melting of metal powder according to mathematical CAD models
- General information
- How it works
- Benefits
- Printing examples 60005
- Choosing a 3D printer
- General
- How it works
- Benefits
- Materials
- Printing examples
- Selecting a 3D printer
General
SLM is an additive manufacturing method that uses lasers to create three-dimensional physical objects, ranging from precise metal parts to work as components and assemblies, as well as non-demountable structures changing geometry during operation.
This process successfully replaces traditional production methods, since the physical and mechanical properties of products built using SLM technology often exceed the properties of products manufactured using traditional technologies.
SLM units help to solve the complex production problems of industrial enterprises operating in the aerospace, energy, engineering and instrumentation industries. Installations are also used in universities, design bureaus, are used in research and experimental work.
The official term for describing the technology is “laser sintering”, although it is somewhat untrue, since materials (powders) are not sintered, but melted to form a homogeneous (thick, pasty) mass.
General information
SLM technology is an additive manufacturing method that uses lasers to create three-dimensional physical objects: both precise metal parts for working as components and assemblies, and non-demountable structures that change geometry during operation.
This process successfully replaces traditional production methods, since the physical and mechanical properties of products built using SLM technology often exceed the properties of products manufactured using traditional technologies.
SLM units help to solve the complex production problems of industrial enterprises operating in the aerospace, energy, engineering and instrumentation industries. Installations are also used in universities, design bureaus, are used in research and experimental work.
The official term for describing the technology is “laser sintering”, although it is somewhat untrue, since materials (powders) are not sintered, but melted to form a homogeneous (thick, pasty) mass.
How it works
The printing process begins by dividing a 3D digital model of a product into layers 20 to 100 microns thick to create a 2D image of each layer of the product. The industry standard format is the STL file. This file enters special machine software, where the information is analyzed and compared with the technical capabilities of the machine.
Based on the received data, a production cycle of building is launched, consisting of many cycles of building individual layers of the product.
The layer building cycle consists of typical operations:
- applying a layer of powder of a given thickness (20-100 µm) on a building plate fixed on a heated building platform;
- laser beam scanning of the product layer section;
- Lowering the platform into the depth of the construction well by an amount corresponding to the thickness of the construction layer.
How it works
The printing process begins by dividing a 3D digital model of a product into layers 20 to 100 microns thick to create a 2D image of each layer of the product. The industry standard format is the STL file. This file enters special machine software, where the information is analyzed and compared with the technical capabilities of the machine.
Based on the received data, a production cycle of building is launched, consisting of many cycles of building individual layers of the product.
The layer building cycle consists of typical operations:
- applying a layer of powder of a given thickness (20-100 µm) on a building plate fixed on a heated building platform;
- laser beam scanning of the product layer section;
- Lowering the platform into the depth of the construction well by an amount corresponding to the thickness of the construction layer.
The process of building products takes place in the chamber of the SLM machine, filled with an inert gas argon or nitrogen (depending on the type of powder from which the construction is made), with its laminar flow. The main consumption of inert gas occurs at the beginning of work, when the build chamber is purged, when air is completely removed from it (permissible oxygen content is less than 0.15%).
After construction, the product, together with the board, is removed from the chamber of the SLM machine, after which the product is mechanically separated from the board.
Supports are removed from the built product, and the finished product is finished.
The near absence of oxygen avoids consumable oxidation, making printing possible with materials such as titanium.
The process of building products takes place in the chamber of the SLM machine, filled with an inert gas argon or nitrogen (depending on the type of powder from which the construction is made), with its laminar flow. The main consumption of inert gas occurs at the beginning of work, when the build chamber is purged, when air is completely removed from it (permissible oxygen content is less than 0.15%).
After construction, the product, together with the board, is removed from the chamber of the SLM machine, after which the product is mechanically separated from the board. Supports are removed from the built product, and the finished product is finished.
The near absence of oxygen avoids consumable oxidation, making printing possible with materials such as titanium.
Benefits of technology
Solving complex technological problems
Manufacture of products with complex geometry, with internal cavities and conformal cooling channels.
Reduced R&D cycle
Ability to build complex products without making expensive tooling
Reduce the weight of products
Construction of products with internal cavities.
Material savings in production
- Construction is carried out by adding the required amount of material to the “body” of the product in layers. 97-99% of the powder not used in the construction after sieving is recyclable. 3-9% of the material involved in the construction of supports is disposed of along with substandard unfused powder that has not passed the sifting operation.
- Reducing the cost of manufacturing complex products, as there is no need to manufacture expensive equipment.
Advantages of technology
Solving complex technological problems
Manufacture of products with complex geometry, with internal cavities and conformal cooling channels.
Reduced R&D cycle
Ability to build complex products without making expensive tooling
Reduce the weight of products
Construction of products with internal cavities.
Material savings in production
- Construction is carried out by adding the required amount of material to the “body” of the product in layers. 97-99% of the powder not used in the construction after sieving is recyclable. 3-9% of the material involved in the construction of supports is disposed of along with substandard unfused powder that has not passed the sieving operation.
- Reducing the cost of manufacturing complex products, as there is no need to manufacture expensive equipment.
Materials
Steel
Stainless, tool; high strength and corrosion resistance
Titanium
Alloys with high strength at low density, corrosion resistance
Aluminum
Lightweight, ductile, soft alloys
Nickel
Alloy with high mechanical strength at high temperatures
Samples of products created using SLM technology can be seen in the Globatek showroom
Examples of products created using SLM technology
Prototype music speaker
Prototype aircraft handle
Bionic design bracket
Prototype music speaker
Fundamentals of 3D
Author: Alexey Chekhovich
Author: Alexey Chekhovich
Where is SLM technology used | Data analysis and product building | Advantages of Selective Laser Melting Technology | Overview of 3D metal printing equipment
SLM (Selective Laser Melting) - selective (selective) laser melting - an innovative technology for manufacturing complex in shape and structure products from metal powders using mathematical CAD models.
This process consists in sequential layer-by-layer melting of the powder material by means of high-power laser radiation.
SLM opens up the widest possibilities for modern industries, as it allows you to create metal products of high precision and density, optimize design and reduce the weight of manufactured parts.
Selective laser melting is one of the metal 3D printing technologies that can successfully complement classical manufacturing processes. It makes it possible to manufacture objects that surpass the products of standard technologies in terms of physical and mechanical properties. With the help of SLM technology, it is possible to create unique complex-shaped products without the use of machining and expensive equipment, in particular, thanks to the ability to control the properties of products.
SLM machines are designed to solve complex problems in aerospace, energy, oil and gas, machine-building industries, metalworking, medicine and jewelry. They are also used in research centers, design bureaus and educational institutions for research and experimental work.
The term "laser sintering", which is often used to describe SLM, is not entirely accurate, since the metal powder supplied to the 3D printer under the laser beam does not sinter, but completely melts and turns into a homogeneous raw material.
Application examples of selective laser melting technology
Where SLM technology is used
Selective laser melting finds application in industry for the manufacture of:
- components of various units and assemblies;
- structures of complex shape and structure, including multi-element and non-separable;
- stamps;
- mold parts;
- prototypes;
- jewelry;
- implants and prostheses in medicine and dentistry.
Data analysis and product design
First of all, the 3D digital model of the part is layered so that each layer, having a thickness of 20-100 microns, can be rendered in 2D. Specialized software parses the data in the STL file (industry standard) and matches it against the 3D printer's specifications. The next stage after processing the received information is construction, which consists of a large number of cycles for each layer of the created object.
Building a layer includes the following operations:
- metal powder is applied to the build plate, which is fixed to the build platform;
- laser beam scans the section of the product layer;
- the platform is lowered into the construction well to a depth that matches the thickness of the layer.
The construction is carried out in the chamber of the SLM machine, which is filled with an inert gas (argon or nitrogen). The main volume of gas is consumed at the initial stage, when all air is removed from the build chamber by blowing.
Upon completion of the construction process, the part, together with the plate, is removed from the powder 3D printer chamber, and then separated from the plate, the supports are removed and the final processing of the product is performed.
Scheme of building a product in additive installations SLM Solutions
Benefits of Selective Laser Melting Technology
SLM technology has serious prospects for improving production efficiency in many industries, because:
- provides high accuracy and repeatability;
- , the mechanical performance of products printed by this type of 3D printer is comparable to casting;
- solves complex technological problems associated with the manufacture of geometrically complex products;
- reduces the cycle of research and development work, providing the construction of complex-shaped parts without the use of tooling;
- allows you to reduce the mass by building objects with internal cavities;
- saves material in production.
Metal 3D printing equipment overview
3DLAM: affordable and efficient Russian-made machines
3DLAM Mid is the perfect balance of cost and features. The printer can print parts up to 220mm high at 0.1mm detail using a 300W / 500W fiber laser or more
The 3DLAM company from St. Petersburg is engaged in the development and production of 3D printers for printing products from metal powders. In an effort to make SLM technology more accessible, the manufacturer successfully implements its solutions both at domestic enterprises and abroad. 3DLAM manufactures both the printers themselves and their electronics, including high-speed control boards, and 3DLAM Slicer software for printer control and management and for slicing.
Advantages of 3D printers:
- affordable equipment entirely designed and manufactured in Russia;
- wide application in various fields - from industry to medicine and art;
- the ability to print products of the most complex shapes and sizes;
- high level of detail thanks to high precision fiber laser and C5 ball screws.
The lineup:
- 3DLAM Mini;
- 3DLAM Mid;
- 3DLAM Max.
SLM Solutions: integrated system solutions for metal 3D printing
Products created at the SLM Solutions facility
Headquartered in Lübeck, Germany, SLM Solutions is a leading developer of metal additive manufacturing technologies. The main activity of the company is the development, assembly and sale of equipment and integrated system solutions in the field of selective laser melting. iQB Technologies is the official distributor of SLM Solutions in Russia.
The lineup:
- SLM Solutions SLM 125;
- SLM Solutions SLM 280 Production Series;
- SLM Solutions SLM 280 2.0;
- SLM Solutions SLM 500;
- SLM Solutions SLM 800.
HBD: from dentistry to aviation
Dental SLM printer HBD-150 with non-contact cleaning system and printed samples
HBD is a well-known brand in China and one of the domestic market leaders in the metal 3D printing segment. The company systematically introduces new generation technologies into software for 3D printers, develops control systems and creates technical databases. HBD holds over 100 technology patents and over 20 software copyrights. The manufacturer's portfolio includes more than 15 models of printers of large, medium and small sizes (the largest build chamber is 600 mm x 600 mm x 1000 mm). HBD specialists have extensive experience in solving complex problems in various industries.
HBD SLM printers are widely used in medicine (prosthetics, orthopedics), dentistry (printing dentures, crowns and implants), automotive, machinery and aviation industries, as well as in foundry, education and R&D. They are perfect for prototyping, customization, and small-scale production.
Among the main advantages of the equipment are a safe atmosphere purification system, convenient non-contact addition of material, configurations with one or two lasers.
Model range (currently available for order):
- HBD 150/150D;
- HBD 200/350;
- HBD 1200/1500.
Sharebot MetalONE: Metal 3D printing in a compact format
In recent years, compact metal 3D printers have begun to appear on the market, primarily focused on R&D and small and medium-sized businesses. One of the most attractive installations in this category in terms of price and quality is called MetalONE and is based on a technology similar to SLM - direct metal laser sintering (DMLS). The machine was developed by the Italian company Sharebot, which has solid experience in the development of several 3D printing technologies. MetalONE is intended for research, product testing and manufacturing of parts of small and medium dimensions: printer building chamber - 65 x 65 x 100 mm.
