METAL ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING

CREATE DURABLE, LASTING PARTS IN METAL

Additive layer manufacturing, or 3D printing as it is commonly known, is a process which produces a 3-dimensional component from a CAD file. The process involves building the component up, layer by layer. It has applications across various sectors of industry including medical & dentistry, aerospace, defence, automotive, tool manufacturing, jewellery and many more. From prototypes to end used parts, metal additive manufacturing can be more efficient and less expensive than traditional metal processing techniques. Additive manufacturing allows the possibility to produce tool free, highly complex components. Many of the components now being produced via additive manufacturing would be impossible to manufacture using traditional methods.

Metal 3D Printers

Metal 3D printing highlights

At Laser Lines we offer two metal 3D print technologies to print components in metal; Selective Laser Melting and Bound Metal Deposition. Both of these technologies are capable of producing near net shape parts.

Selective laser melting is the process of melting and fusing metallic powder layer by layer on the printer bed, in order to form parts. After each layer is fused, the part is moved down so that the next one can be created. Parts created in this way have nearly 100% density.

Alternatively, using the Bound Metal Deposition metallic rods are heated, the molten metallic filament is then pushed through the extrusion nozzle, in order to build parts (once again layer by layer).

Despite their differences, each process begins in the same way, with the creation of a 3D CAD model. The system software then numerically slices the CAD model into a number of finite layers. By offering two different types of metal 3D printer, we are able to provide tailored solutions, so you can make the right choice for your business needs.

With build rates of up to 8200cm³/hr throughput and return on investment will be maximised. Both technologies offer a wide range of metal materials including stainless steel, maraging steel, aluminium, precious metals, cobalt chrome, titanium, nickel-based alloys copper, bronze and tungsten carbide, depending on the process.

The benefits of metal 3D printing

The ability to build, light weight structures with the use of a lattice design.
The capability of producing complex parts in one process thus reducing the need for assembly operations like welding or brazing.
Ability to customise and create unique, individual products.
The potential to create end use parts thus reducing time from concept to market
Only use the material you require, reducing material cost and part weight. unlike traditional manufacturing excess material is recycled for use during the next build.