3D Printing Group

hello,Here's how SLM achieves this:

1. Layer-by-Layer Melting: In SLM, a high-power laser melts and fuses thin layers of metal powder together. This process is repeated layer by layer until the part is complete. Each layer is fully melted, creating a solid metal part without the layer lines that are typical in FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) printing.
2. Full Density: The melting process in SLM results in a part that is nearly 100% dense, with very few if any voids or porosity. This full density contributes to the isotropic properties because the material's structure is uniform throughout the part.
3. Heat Treatment: After the SLM process, parts are often subjected to heat treatment processes such as solutionizing and aging. These treatments help to relieve internal stresses, refine the microstructure, and improve the mechanical properties of the part, further contributing to the isotropic behavior.
4. Direction of Deposition: Unlike FDM, where the direction of the deposited material can affect the strength and flexibility of the printed object, SLM builds parts from a powder bed, and the laser can scan in any direction to create the part. This means that the material properties are not dependent on the direction of the print, leading to isotropy.
5. Microstructure Control: The SLM process allows for precise control over the microstructure of the printed material. By adjusting parameters such as laser power, scanning speed, and hatch spacing, the microstructure can be tailored to achieve desired mechanical properties in all directions.
6. Stress Relief: The high temperatures involved in the SLM process, along with post-processing heat treatments, help to relieve any residual stresses that might otherwise cause anisotropy in the material.
7. No Shear Thinning: In contrast to FDM printer, where the material is extruded and subjected to shear forces, SLM uses a powder bed and melting process that does not involve shear thinning. This means that the material properties are not influenced by the direction of the shear forces, which can cause anisotropy in FDM prints.

Because of these factors, SLM-produced parts exhibit mechanical properties that are consistent regardless of the direction in which they are measured, which is the definition of isotropy. This makes SLM an attractive technology for applications where consistent material properties are critical, such as in the aerospace, automotive, and medical industries.

have you got example photo or video the result of metal 3dprint?