Selective Laser Melting (SLM)

3D printing in metal using the SLM process

The metal 3D printing process Selective Laser Melting has the decisive advantage that the components are built up from metal powder layer by layer, formless and without tools.

The additive manufacturing process is not suitable for every application and every component geometry. Especially in the case of simple geometries, the higher production costs of the raw parts compared to conventional manufacturing are a disadvantage. These costs can only be economically justified if additive manufacturing can add functional value to the component that cannot be achieved with other manufacturing technologies.

We will be happy to provide you with an initial assessment of the feasibility and economic viability of your component.

The economic benefit of metal 3D printing depends strongly on the geometry and the application. As a rule, the following advantages can be achieved:

• Production costs independent of component complexity
• Weight reduction through topology optimisation or lightweight structures
• Functional optimisation through hybrid or integral design
• Constructive degrees of freedom in component development
• Shapeless and near-net-shape production for shortened product development process
• Added value in the material system through material selection and parameter adjustment

The components can then be reworked with our modern CAD/CAM systems on the 5-axis machining centres.