SLM-3D printing aerospace applications

Metal sintering (SLM) is a 3D printing technology that uses metal powder to directly print metal parts. When printing, the scraper spreads a layer of metal powder on the base plate of the forming cylinder, and the laser beam will selectively melt the powder according to the cross-sectional profile of each layer of the part to process the current layer. After one layer of sintering is completed, the lifting system lowers the height of one cross-section layer. The powder spreading roller spreads another layer of metal powder on the formed cross-section layer and sinters the next layer. This is done layer by layer until the entire part is sintered. The entire molding process is carried out in a processing chamber that is evacuated or filled with protective gas to prevent the metal from reacting with other gases at high temperatures.

Technical advantages of 3D printing
1. Shorten the R&D cycle
High efficiency, shortening the research and development cycle of new aerospace equipment.
2. Reduce manufacturing costs
Improve material utilization, save expensive strategic materials, and reduce manufacturing costs.
3. Break through the formation of complex structures
Optimize the part structure, reduce weight, reduce stress concentration, and increase service life.
4. Achieve lightweight
Structural optimization design takes into account product performance and parts weight reduction.