Short answer: SLM and DMLS are laser powder-bed fusion processes that melt metal powder into fully dense parts, covered in the overview in our 3D Metal Printing Guide and arranged via our Metal 3D Printing Supplier page.
At a Glance
What SLM and DMLS Are
Both use a focused laser to fully melt each powder layer; SLM targets single-alloy fully dense parts and DMLS handles pre-alloyed powders, with the powder basis in our Metal Powder for AM Guide.
SLM vs DMLS
The terms overlap in practice; SLM is usually fully dense single alloy, DMLS uses pre-alloyed powder with slight porosity, both detailed alongside the overview in our 3D Metal Printing Guide.
| Aspect | SLM | DMLS |
|---|---|---|
| Powder | Single alloy | Pre-alloyed mix |
| Densità | Fully dense | Near dense |
| Use | Engineered parts | Functional parts |
Materials and Accuracy
Common alloys are 316L, 17-4PH, Ti-6Al-4V, AlSi10Mg and tool steel, with accuracy near 0.1 mm plus 0.05 percent of size, and the alloy basis in our Tool Steel Buyers Guide.
Design Tips
Keep minimum wall thickness around 0.4 to 0.8 mm, add escape holes for trapped powder and plan supports, with the full rules in our Design for AM Guide.
Quality and Inspection
Density and dimensions are verified, with the method in our AM Quality Inspection Guide and verification in our Quality Inspection Guide.
Buyer Checklist
Define alloy, accuracy and supports; plan quantity and timing with our MOQ and Lead Time Guide and price with our Price Quotation Guide.
Get a Quote
Tell HXSCO your requirements and we will respond with a competitive quote and lead time.
Domande frequenti
Both are laser powder-bed fusion; SLM is fully dense.
About 0.1 mm plus 0.05 percent of size.
Stainless, titanium, aluminum, tool steel.
Around 0.4 to 0.8 mm.
Density and dimensional reports.
Get SLM/DMLS Printing with HXSCO
HXSCO arranges SLM/DMLS printing with density and dimensional reports. Send your file, alloy and accuracy need for a quote.