A Guide to Direct Metal Laser Sintering and Its Role in Advanced Prototyping
3D printing is often associated with manufacturing plastic parts, but technologies like direct metal laser sintering make it possible to print metal parts, too. At HLH Prototypes, we offer this industrial 3D printing technology to build custom prototypes and end-use parts from a range of metals. The process is similar to selective laser sintering (SLS), where powdered material is sintered carefully one layer at a time, except metal-based powders, which are used in DMLS to make the required parts.
Prototyping is crucial to product development, but it takes time and can be costly with traditional manufacturing methods. Thankfully, technological advancements have resulted in reliable and efficient manufacturing solutions, such as DMLS 3D printing. Its benefits in advanced prototyping are undeniable:
Build prototypes efficiently and quickly
DMLS 3D printing can realize highly complex designs that would be challenging or near impossible to make with other additive manufacturing methods. At HLH Prototypes, we see the full potential of direct metal laser sintering on projects with complicated details, such as mesh structures and long, narrow channels. It’s also practical for parts with complex geometries, including mesh fastening features. DMLS can create these metal parts as an all-in-one assembly, reducing the number of parts, rate of failures, and assembly times.
Fast turnaround time
Traditional manufacturing methods take time, especially where tooling and molding are involved. With DMLS 3D printing, we can make your parts on-demand without tooling or custom jigs and fixtures. This shortens the lead time and reduces turnaround times, allowing rapid design iteration.
Craft durable and lightweight components
At HLH Prototypes, we can produce custom metal prototypes using high-quality materials like stainless steel, copper, and aluminum. We also provide titanium and tool steel, ensuring production-grade aesthetic and functional models that are durable and lightweight.
Make metal prototypes with DMLS 3D printing
Direct metal laser sintering is used extensively in making prototypes for various industries, including medical, automotive, and aerospace. It’s also a great prototyping solution for part consolidation and weight-saving applications.
Discover how DMLS 3D printing can build high-quality metal prototypes. Contact us for a complimentary project review or email FreeQuote@HLHPrototypes.com.