Monday, October 5, 2009

Direct Metal Laser Sintering


Process

Utilizing the DMLS process, metal parts of the most complex geometries are built layer-by-layer (down to 20 microns) directly from 3D CAD data, automatically, without tooling. The parts have excellent mechanical properties, high detail resolution and exceptional surface quality. The process melts the metal powder entirely, creating a fine, homogenous structure.

Benefits

DMLS enables the formation of cavities and undercuts which, with conventional methods, can only be produced with great difficulty, if at all. Additionally, when a part needs to be tested and re-designed over and over, the lead time for receiving a traditionally tooled part can create a large bottleneck in the final production process. Depending on size and geometries, in some cases the turnaround time for a part can be as little as a few hours. Furthermore, these parts can undergo functional testing in the environment for which they were designed. This technology delivers unlimited potential for engineers to create previously impossible solutions, embracing a new era of design-driven manufacturing.


Tim Ruffner

Account Executive

GPI Prototype & Manufacturing Services, Inc.

940 North Shore Drive

Lake Bluff, IL 60044

http://www.GPIprototype.com

Phone: 847.615.8900

Fax: 847.615.8920

Email: Timr@GPIprototype.com