...

Selective Laser Melting (SLM)

“Innovating the future, one layer at a time.”
Selective Laser Melting (SLM) delivers unmatched precision, transforming metallic powders into high-density, complex parts with superior mechanical properties. Unlock the potential of advanced manufacturing with cutting-edge SLM technology.

Selective Laser Melting
Selective Laser Melting (SLM)

What is SLM 3D Printing?

Selective Laser Melting (SLM) is an advanced 3D printing technology that uses a high-powered laser to fuse metallic powders into solid, fully dense parts, layer by layer. This process is ideal for creating intricate, high-performance components with excellent mechanical properties. SLM is widely applied in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and medical, offering a groundbreaking approach to manufacturing complex metal parts with exceptional precision and efficiency.

At XC Machining, we harness the power of Selective Laser Melting 3D printing to deliver custom, high-quality metal components that meet the demands of modern engineering challenges.

Standard Tolerances for Selective Laser Melting (SLM)

Parameter Tolerance/Specification
Dimensional Tolerance ±0.1 mm (±0.004 inches) or ±0.2% of the nominal dimension, whichever is greater
Hole Diameters ±0.1 mm to ±0.2 mm depending on size and depth
Surface Roughness As-built: Ra 8-12 µm; Post-processed: Smoother finishes available
Minimum Feature Size 0.25 mm (0.01 inches)
Wall Thickness Minimum: 0.4 mm (0.016 inches)
Positional Accuracy ±0.1 mm per 100 mm of part size

Why Choose Selective Laser Melting (SLM) with XC Machining?

Provides rapid prototyping and precision parts using advanced CNC technology, ensuring exceptional quality and precision. Trust Selective Laser Melting (SLM) to meet your exacting standards.

Strong Manufacturing Capabilities

In our facility, you have a variety of machines for part production, including CNC turning lathes, milling machines, injection molding equipment, state-of-the-art 3D printing technology, and more.

Flexible Material Selection

At XC Machining, we try to ensure your choice is not limited, which is why we offer over 60 materials for you to choose from for your prototypes and products.

24/7 Engineering Support

In-depth service engineers with the knowledge to address your manufacturing inquiries are available from XC Machining. Our engineers are always on the ground to offer valuable advice.

Choice of Custom Finishes

We offer a range of surface treatments and custom finishes on solid metal and plastic parts, including anodizing, spray painting, vapor polishing, sandblasting, silk screening, etc.

Gallery of Selective Laser Melting (SLM) parts

This gallery showcases the exceptional quality and attention to detail we deliver in every project. From complex designs to flawless finishes, each image reflects our commitment to excellence in Selective Laser Melting (SLM) .

Materials for Selective Laser Melting (SLM) Parts

Leading companies and engineers rely on XC Machining for rapid iterations and durable, high-quality parts. Whether it’s for prototyping or full-scale production, our wide range of materials ensures we meet the unique requirements of any Selective Laser Melting (SLM) project with precision and speed.

3D Printing Plastic Materials

A wide range of 3D printing plastic materials from thermoplastics for functional parts to high detail resins (thermosets) for visual prototypes.

3D-printing-materials

Surface finishes for Selective Laser Melting (SLM)

We offer finishing services for Selective Laser Melting (SLM), providing a wide range of finishing options to enhance both the durability and appearance of your parts. Whether it’s for prototyping or full-scale production, our finishing solutions ensure that your parts meet the highest standards of performance and visual appeal for all needs.

Brushing is a technique that utilizes abrasive pads or brushes to add a finish to the surface of a material. It is commonly used on metal surfaces to enhance their visual appeal. This method is especially effective on stainless steel, creating either a linear or circular pattern on the surface.

Black oxide coating is a popular choice for enhancing the surface of steel and iron. This finish not only provides a visually appealing dark surface, but also offers excellent wear resistance. Additionally, the black oxide coating can enhance the lubricity and durability of the treated surface, making it an ideal option for various applications.

Passivation is a common process used to enhance the corrosion resistance of stainless steel by removing iron impurities and forming a protective oxide layer. This helps to improve the durability and performance of stainless steel in tough environments.

Paint serves as a surface coating that is effective on a wide range of materials, offering both aesthetic enhancement and protection against corrosion. It is available in numerous color options, making it suitable for application on metals, polymers, wood, and various other substrates.

Enhance the shine and smoothness of your materials by utilizing polishing techniques. By using abrasives such as buffing wheels or polishing chemicals, you can elevate the reflectivity and overall aesthetic of metals, resulting in a stunning mirror-like finish.

Alodine coating, also known as chromate conversion coating, is widely used on metals like aluminum. It serves as an excellent primer for paint or powder coatings, providing a durable and corrosion-resistant finish. By creating a thin layer of protection, it enhances the bond between subsequent coatings, ensuring long-lasting results.

3d-printed-prototypes

Specialist industries

XC Machining is a trusted partner for industries demanding complexity, reliability and precision. Our expensive experience in producing millions of high quality components brings unmatched expertise to every project.

Our services cover a diverse range of applications to ensure that we meet the unique needs of each sector with great care.

XC Machining supports the automotive industry with cutting-edge CNC machining solutions, enabling the production of complex parts that drive efficiency

For the semiconductor industry, XC Machining offers CNC machining services that meet the high precision demands necessary for manufacturing components

Our CNC machining services are pivotal in the energy sector, where precision and durability are essential. XC Machining supports the

XC Machining is a trusted partner in the industrial machinery sector, offering CNC machining solutions that ensure the robust and

XC Machining delivers precision machining solutions for the electronics industry, producing intricate components that meet the exacting standards required for

XC Machining offers specialized CNC machining services for the communications industry, crafting precision parts that are vital for the infrastructure

Our Selective Laser Melting (SLM) service capabilities

As a leader in precision manufacturing, we offer a wide range of capabilities that cater to both one-off prototyping and low-volume production. We specialize in delivering geometrically complex and highly cosmetic parts, ensuring the highest quality standards. At XC Machining, we pride ourselves on being the go-to manufacturer for all your Selective Laser Melting (SLM) needs, providing reliable and efficient solutions under one roof.

On-Demand Parts Delivered Fast with 4 Simple Steps

Xcmachining develops rapid prototypes and parts with efficient manufacturing expertise and advanced equipment. We are a reliable on-demand production company and ensure our products meet exacting tolerance specifications and quality standards.

Step 1:

Upload the Design File

This is the first step in the manufacturing process. Here, you upload your 3D CAD to our backend. This file could be STEP, STP, STL, OBJ, X_T, SAT, IGS, IGES, or SLDPRT file types.
cnc machining quote

Step 2:

DFM Analysis

After uploading your design, our project managers will provide your feedback in the form of a real-time quotation. Additionally, you will get a quote and DFM analysis within a few hours.
cnc machining quote

Step 3:

Quote Confirmation and Manufacturing

As soon as you agree to our quote, our team will start working with you to bring your ideas to life. Additionally, we would provide you with a variety of surface finishing options.
cnc machining quote

Step 4:

Part Shipment

This is the final step in the production cycle; delivery. We produce your prototypes and parts within a few days. After part production, we deliver them directly to your doorstep.
cnc machining quote

Revolutionary Advancements in Selective Laser Melting (SLM)

Imagine holding a custom-designed metal part that is lightweight, exceptionally strong, and entirely seamless. This is the marvel of Selective Laser Melting (SLM), a groundbreaking 3D printing technology that has transformed the way industries produce complex metal components.

From aerospace and automotive to medical implants and beyond, SLM has redefined manufacturing possibilities. Let’s explore the details of this revolutionary process and uncover why SLM is becoming the go-to choice for intricate metal part production.

The Core Strength of SLM

Selective Laser Melting stands out for its unparalleled precision. The process involves melting metal powder layer by layer with a high-powered laser, achieving an extraordinary level of detail. Each layer is crafted to capture intricate geometries and fine details that conventional manufacturing methods struggle to achieve.

This precision is perfect for intricate designs, requires minimal post-processing, and ensures millimeter-perfect results in industries like aerospace and medical implants.

SLM technology- A Game-Changer for Engineering

SLM technology enables the production of components that are both strong and lightweight, a combination critical to industries like aviation and automotive. By building parts layer by layer, SLM optimizes material placement, adding strength where necessary and reducing weight where possible.

Lighter parts improve fuel efficiency, allow for complex geometries without weight penalties, and enhance performance with a balance of structural integrity and reduced mass.

Customization: Tailored to Perfection

Gone are the days of being restricted to standard shapes and sizes. SLM’s flexibility allows manufacturers to create unique, one-of-a-kind designs tailored to specific requirements. This capability is particularly impactful in areas such as personalized medical implants and bespoke automotive parts.

Customization enables precision in medical devices, simplifies prototyping, and supports on-demand production to minimize inventory.

A Sustainable Solution

Traditional manufacturing methods often generate substantial waste due to cutting, drilling, or machining processes. In contrast, SLM only uses the metal powder necessary for the part, significantly reducing material waste and disposal costs.

This approach lowers material costs, supports eco-friendly goals, and enhances efficiency by reducing raw material usage.

Speeding Up Production

Time is often a critical factor in manufacturing. SLM accelerates production cycles by enabling rapid prototyping and small-batch production. Designers can move from digital design to physical part within days, reducing lead times and accelerating innovation.

Faster production means quicker prototyping, efficient small-batch manufacturing, and faster feedback for design refinement.

One Part, One Solution

SLM eliminates the need for assembling multiple components by producing complex parts as a single unit. This reduces the risk of weak points and simplifies the manufacturing process.

With simplified assembly, weak points in joints are eliminated, assembly time is reduced, and seamless functionality is achieved in a unified design.

Heat-Resistant Materials: Meeting Extreme Demands

SLM excels at processing heat-resistant materials like titanium and nickel alloys, which are essential for industries like aerospace and energy. These metals maintain their properties under extreme conditions, making them perfect for engines, turbines, and other high-performance applications.

SLM ensures durability, supports extreme operational demands, and is ideal for engines and aerospace components.

Consistent Quality Every Time

One of SLM’s most significant advantages is its ability to deliver consistent results. Once a design is perfected, the process can reliably produce identical parts with no variations, ensuring high standards of quality.

This consistency guarantees reliability in critical applications, minimizes risks, and simplifies quality control.

Perfect for Prototyping and Innovation

SLM’s flexibility, speed, and precision make it an ideal tool for prototyping. Engineers can create and test real-metal prototypes in record time, allowing faster iteration and innovation.

Prototyping with SLM accelerates design validation, enables real-world testing with functional prototypes, and reduces development cycles.

Explore the Future with Selective Laser Melting

Selective Laser Melting offers endless possibilities, from intricate customization to rapid production and sustainable practices. Whether you need lightweight aerospace components, precise medical implants, or innovative prototypes, XC Machining empowers you to think beyond the limits of traditional manufacturing.

Whether you’re exploring a new idea or ready to bring your designs to life, our team is here to help.

Contact us today to discuss your project and discover how SLM can revolutionize your manufacturing process.

Get in Touch

Bring Your Designs to Life with XC Machining

Experience precision engineering with XC Machining. From detailed prototypes to high-volume production, we’re here to turn your concepts into reality. Contact us today to discuss your project needs!

Get In Touch

Related Articles and Insights

Dive Deeper with Articles and Posts Connected to Your Interests

Frequently Asked Questions

Selective Laser Melting (SLM)

  • What is the build size of SLM machines?

    SLM printers typically have build volumes ranging from 100 x 100 x 100 mm to 500 x 280 x 365 mm, with larger industrial models available. 

  • Is SLM suitable for end-use parts?

    Yes, SLM is ideal for end-use metal parts due to its strength, durability, and precision, making it suitable for industries like aerospace and medical. 

  • What are common applications of SLM?

    SLM is commonly used for aerospace components, medical implants, tooling, and custom industrial parts, especially where complex geometries and high strength are required. 

  • What are the limitations of SLM?

    SLM is expensive due to high material and equipment costs, requires post-processing, and is limited to smaller build sizes compared to traditional methods. 

en_USEnglish
Fill This Detailed Form