It is a 3D printing process that uses metals as material. It is used to produce functional metal prototypes and end-use parts in just a week or so. A large variety of metals can be used to produce final parts that can be directly used for many end-use applications.
The DMLS machine sinters each layer of the given model, first the support structures on the base plate, and then the part itself with the help of a high-power laser beam guided by a computer aimed onto a bed of metallic powder. Once one layer of powder is printed, the base plate shifts down and a recoater blade adds the next layer of powder. The same process continues to build the complete part. Now any loose power available on the part is brushed out manually followed by a heat-treat cycle and both the base plate and the support structures are moved. Bead blasting and deburring are applied on the part if any further finish is required.
Common Applications: