From Concept to Reality: The Journey of 3D Printing Prototypes

Are you looking for a cost-effective and quick solution to produce high-quality prototypes? Here at HLH Prototypes, we specialize in cutting-edge technologies like direct metal laser sintering (DMLS) to create exceptional metal prototypes and even end-use parts.

While 3D printing is often associated with plastics, DMLS unlocks a world of possibilities for metal parts. We use DMLS to craft prototypes from a variety of metals, including copper, stainless steel, tool steel, titanium, and aluminum. This technology excels at creating highly intricate metal parts that might be impossible or expensive to produce using traditional methods. Whether you need a single prototype or low-volume metal parts, HLH Prototypes has the expertise and technology to meet your needs.

How does it work?

Direct metal laser sintering is an industrial 3D printing solution that builds a part by carefully sintering powdered metals together, one layer at a time. This powder-bed fusion process uses a high-powered laser, similar to selective laser sintering (SLS), except this time, it’s for making functional metal parts. Let’s take a closer look at how our DMLS 3D printing technology goes from concept to reality.

Does it suit your project?

Compared to other metal additive manufacturing solutions, DMLS 3D printing is widely sought-after for many good reasons:

• Dimensional accuracy: This 3D printing technology has the lowest deformation and shrinkage rates, thanks to the absence of fusion. Plus, it eliminates the need for post-sintering.
• Repeatability: DMLS is a reliable manufacturing technology for making one, a few, or a low-volume of prototypes for medical, space, and aerospace industries.
• Post-machining optional: Direct metal laser sintering delivers parts in an almost net-shape state, typically with a roughness exceeding 250 microinches RMS. So, you can skip excessive post-machining. At most, we can skim the joining surfaces and tap holes.

Additionally, we recommend DMLS 3D printing for prototyping applications that require:

• Weight reduction: We can print complex parts that are up to 80% lighter without compromising structural strength.
• Quick tooling: Save time and eliminate additional engineering costs if you need only a few prototypes.
• Part consolidation: We can consolidate several metal parts into one complex piece.

Embark on your direct metal laser sintering journey with us here at HLH Prototypes. Start with your free project review today to learn if it’s the 3D printing technology for you.