Metal 3D Printing

Metal 3D Printing

Overview of the metal 3D printing process offered at Mastars Prototype. Sometimes referred to as direct metal laser sintering(DMLS) or a metal 3d printer, DMLS uses a laser beam to melt 20-40 micron layers of metal powder on top of each other to create metal parts. This additive process is similar to 3d printing, although metal powder is spread across a build platform and melted instead of a plastic filament being extruded.

How it works

Direct Metal Laser sintering (DMLS) parts are fully dense, incorporating complex geometries and precise internal features that cannot be made with traditional machining alone. But many parts have features that still need to be post-machined, such as threading tapped holes. Therefore with AddSub®, parts are transferred directly to a 5-axis CNC machine center for subtractive post-processing rather than being sent to another factory.

Designs can be made quickly with a minimum of material waste while maximizing strength, making them ideal for next-generation applications in aerospace, medical, automotive and other industries.

3D Metal Printer – The Renishaw AM250

The AM250 features an external powder hopper with valve interlocks to allow additional material to be added whilst the process is running. It is possible to remove the hopper for cleaning or to exchange with a secondary hopper for materials change, using the universal silo lift. This means that multiple material types can be interchanged on the AM250 platform with relative ease. The powder overflow containers are outside the chamber and have isolation valves so that unused materials can be sieved and reintroduced to the process via the hopper while the system is running. The system has a build volume of 250 mm × 250 mm × 300 mm.

Post Machining

Many parts have features that still need to be post-machined, such as threading tapped holes. Therefore using our in house HAAS UMC-750 5-Axis CNC Machine, your parts will be machined directly for subtractive post-processing rather than being sent to another factory.

Finishing Options

We offer a range of finishing options including bead or sand blasting, shot peening, mirror polish, machine finish and more.