About SLM/DMLS 3D printing
Using SLM or DMLS, RapAdd MFG produces high-quality components from a range of metals—from aluminum (AlSi10Mg) to titanium (Ti6Al4V). Typical applications include topology-optimized industrial parts, automotive and aerospace items, as well as medical parts that can be sterilized for clinical use. Built in a bed of powder, it is possible to achieve internal geometries not possible to produce in any other way. Start your next DMLS project with RapAdd MFG.
Sample Applications
Compressor impeller
Complex geometries achievable through DMLS make it possible to save weight and costs compared to producing items with traditional methods.
Machine Components
With the exceptional strength-to-weight ratios of many DMLS materials, this technology has become paramount in producing parts for robotics applications.
Beverage Nozzle
Sterilizable and inert, our DMLS materials are ideal for medical applications, including surgical tools and guides used in the operating theatre.
Automated Production Workflow
Fully Automated Production Pipeline
File Preparation
Printing
Heat treatment
Support removal
Post Processing
Advantages & Limitations
Advantages
- Fully dense metal parts
- Excellent mechanical properties
- Complex internal geometries
Limitations
- High cost
- Support material required
- Thin-walled parts can crack
Available Materials
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Sample Prints
Design Guidelines
DMLS (Direct Metal Laser Sintering)
Metal powder laser fusion technology
Min Wall Thickness (Unsupported)
1.2 mm
Min Wall Thickness (Supported)
0.8 mm
Min Feature Size
0.2 mm
Min Hole Size
0.5 mm
Tolerances
±0.1 mm
Min Letter Size
0.5 mm height, 0.2 mm depth
Min Pin Size
1.0 mm diameter
Max Overhang
35° without support
Layer Height
0.06 mm
Technology Comparison
Compare our additive manufacturing technologies across key performance metrics to choose the best solution for your project requirements.
Technology Performance Matrix
| Criteria | FDM | SLA | DLP | SLS | Polyjet | DMLS/SLM |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost per Part | $ | $$ | $$$ | $$ | $$$$ | $$$$$ |
| Surface Quality | Good | Excellent | Excellent | Very Good | Excellent | Excellent |
| Accuracy | ±0.3mm | ±0.15mm | ±0.1mm | ±0.2mm | ±0.1mm | ±0.15mm |
| Material Variety | Very High | Medium | High | Medium | High | Limited |
| Build Volume | Large | Very Large | Small | Medium | Medium | Small |
| Support Required | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
| Post-Processing | Minimal | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate | Extensive |
| Multi-Material | Limited | No | No | No | Yes | No |
Ready to Start Your Project?
Upload your files now for instant pricing across all our technologies, or speak with our engineering team for a custom consultation.
Questions about which technology is right for your project?Contact our technical team