To DMLS or not to DMLS
A frequent question we get from engineers has to do with how to decide whether to use a 3D printing process using metal materials for their projects. While each project is different and has different requirements, we thought it would be helpful to run a quick post about the most popular applications and advantages of Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS).
A frequent question we get from engineers has to do with how to decide whether to use a 3D printing process using metal materials for their projects. While each project is different and has different requirements, we thought it would be helpful to run a quick post about the most popular applications and advantages of Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS).
Applications of DMLS
Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) is an Additive Manufacturing method that builds prototype and production metal parts using a laser to selectively fuse a fine metal powder. It creates fully functional parts out of metals such as Cobalt Chrome, Stainless Steel, Titanium, Inconel, and many others. The typical users of DMLS fall under these applications:
- Fast turnaround – DMLS parts are often produced in 1-3 days. So if you’re looking to a part in hand within a week using metallic materials, DMLS is a good option.
- High complexity – Difficult to machine parts, custom medical pieces, hollowed or lightweight parts, and artistic pieces fall in this category. DMLS is a good process to create highly complex parts for your project.
- Rapid or continuous revisions – Product development efforts and iterative designs are well-suited to DMLS because there are no setup costs as in traditional manufacturing. Without worrying about setup costs for each run, DMLS gives you incrementally more design revisions within budget.
So, from prototyping to making test parts, or even low-volume production runs, Direct Metal Laser Sintering should be part of your manufacturing process portfolio to consider.
Advantages of DMLS
There are a number of key advantages DMLS holds over other 3D printing processes and CNC turning or milling, the most notable of which are the following:
- Ability to make highly complex part designs
- Speed to production
Xometry offers metal 3D printing using DMLS in multiple materials and finishes. Click here to learn more or get an instant quote here.
As mentioned in the beginning, Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) may not be the right fit for your particular project or application. Other 3D printing processes such as SLS and CNC metal turning or milling may be a better fit for your project. Click here to learn more about all the manufacturing processes that Xometry offers.