Question 1

What should I upload for a DMLS/SLM quote?

Accepted Answer

Upload 3D CAD (STEP preferred) and drawings defining CTQs (datums, fits, sealing/mating faces, hole/bores), target alloy, required heat treat/HIP (if any), finish class (as-printed/blast/peen/machined), quantity targets, and any documentation needs (CTQ reports, traceability, inspection evidence).

Question 2

Do metal printed parts require supports?

Accepted Answer

Usually yes. Supports manage overhangs, heat flow, and distortion. The support strategy also impacts surface condition and post-processing access—so it’s planned during metal DfAM.

Question 3

Do you heat treat metal Additive Manufacturing parts?

Accepted Answer

Yes—stress relief is commonly used to stabilize parts before support removal and machining. Additional heat treatment (solution/age) or HIP can be included when required by alloy condition, fatigue/density needs, or customer specifications.

Question 4

Can you hit tight fits and precision bores with metal AM?

Accepted Answer

For assembly-critical fits, we typically machine CTQ interfaces (datums, bores, sealing faces) after printing and heat treatment. This delivers more repeatable results than relying on print-only tolerances for precision interfaces.

Question 5

What post-processing options do you support?

Accepted Answer

Common programs include stress relief, plate separation (EDM/bandsaw as required), support removal/cleanup, CNC machining of CTQ datums/bores/threads, bead blast/shot peen, and spec-dependent finishing (passivation/electropolish for stainless, coatings/anodize for aluminum when specified).

Question 6

What drives cost in DMLS/SLM metal printing?

Accepted Answer

Key drivers include part volume, alloy selection, support volume and removal difficulty, heat treatment/HIP requirements, secondary machining for CTQs, surface finishing, and inspection/documentation scope.

Metal Additive Manufacturing(DMLS / SLM)

Metal Additive Manufacturing(DMLS / SLM)