Technology
Metal 3D Printing
Metal 3D printing, or selective laser melting (SLM), combines the design flexibility of 3D printing with the mechanical properties of high-performance metal alloys to create unique, strong, and lightweight parts, even for the most complex applications. Metal 3D printing is ideal for creating fully functional prototypes and end-use parts that may be impossible to produce using conventional manufacturing methods.
Why work with Materialise Manufacturing?
Producing metal parts with Materialise is all about making the complex simple. From working with our Design & Engineering Team to accessing our industry-leading Metal Competence Center in Bremen, we help you take advantage of the flexibility and speed metal 3D printing offers compared to traditional methods. Whether you need prototypes or full series production, you can count on us from start to finish.
Discover applications of metal 3D printing
Technical specifications
| Maximum build dimensions | Dimensions are unlimited as components may be composed of several sub-parts. The maximum build envelope is 500 x 280 x 315 mm |
| Standard accuracy | Better than or equal to the industry standards:
See design guidelines for more information on standard accuracy. |
| Layer thickness | 0.04 – 0.09 mm (material dependent) |
| Minimum wall thickness |
|
| Surface structure | Unfinished parts are typically rough, but various post-production finishes are possible |
Materials
Choose from a broad selection of materials when you come to Materialise for your metal 3D printing projects.
Aluminum (AlSi₁₀Mg)
Technology
Metal 3D printing
Description
The strength, thermal properties, low weight, and flexible post-processing of this aluminum alloy, AlSi₁₀Mg, make it ideal for prototyping and manufacturing in industries such as automotive and aerospace.
Key characteristics
- Offers the largest printing volume of all metal 3D printing materials
- Lightweight, with good strength-to-weight ratio
- High thermal and electrical conductivity
- Suitable for post-machining
- Max part dimensions: 500 x 280 x 345 mm
Titanium (Ti₆Al₄V)
Technology
Metal 3D printing
Description
Ti₆Al₄V is a lightweight titanium alloy with excellent mechanical strength and superior corrosion resistance, making it ideal for functional prototypes and high-performance end-use parts.
Key characteristics
- Excellent mechanical properties
- Lightweight, with a high strength-to-weight ratio
- High corrosion and temperature resistance
- Suitable for post-machining
- Max part dimensions: 250 x 250 x 305 mm
Stainless Steel (SS316L)
Technology
Metal 3D printing
Description
Stainless Steel (SS316L) is a low-carbon stainless steel alloy that offers excellent strength, high corrosion resistance and ductility, and good thermal properties, making it suitable for general prototyping.
Key characteristics
- Excellent strength
- High corrosion, temperature, and chemical resistance
- High ductility
- Suitable for food-safe applications
- Max part dimensions: 250 x 250 x 305 mm
Inconel (IN718)
Technology
Metal 3D printing
Description
Inconel (IN718) is a high-strength, corrosion-resistant alloy with exceptional thermal resistance. Ideal for functional prototypes and high-performance parts that need to withstand extreme conditions.
Key characteristics
- Exceptional thermal resistance up to 700°C
- High corrosion resistance
- High yield, tensile, and creep-rupture strength
- Suitable for post-machining
- Max part dimensions: 250 x 250 x 305 mm
Stainless Steel (C465)
Technology
Metal 3D printing
Description
Stainless Steel (C465) is an age-hardenable stainless steel alloy that offers excellent strength and fracture toughness, and high corrosion resistance, making it ideal for high-performance end-use parts.
Key characteristics
- Excellent tensile strength, hardness, and fracture toughness
- High corrosion resistance
- Age-hardenable steel alloy
- Max part dimensions: 250 x 250 x 305 mm
Grades
Balance performance and efficiency in every project with your choice of Standard or Performance grades.Standard
The all-rounder, where it’s all about technology:
- Ideal for prototypes and simple end-parts
- Form-, fit-, and function-testing
- Strength and density similar to cast parts
- Industry-standard quality requirements
Performance
The specialist, for complex production:
- Ideal for complex metal parts designed for AM
- Preferred for applications in demanding environments
- Suited for series production
- Higher strength and density than casting
- Specialized quality test reports available to your specification
Work with us: discover our products and services
Want to bring metal 3D printing into a future project? Discover the services that can help you do it.
Get direct 24/7 access to the technologies and materials you need to bring your designs to life. Instant quotes, short lead-times, and easy checkout.
Innovate and speed up your manufacturing in collaboration with our experts. Rely on our full range of in-house technologies suitable for all industries and applications.
Transform your product development cycle and get the best possible products to market faster. Get unbiased advice and dedicated support from teams committed to your success.
Build your success on a platform of software tools that efficiently manage and control the 3D printing process, allowing you to meet the highest standards of the most demanding industries.
Work with our experts to translate your business challenges into 3D printing opportunities and identify the applications that can help you meet your needs.
Train and learn
Get more from your next project with helpful resources dedicated to metal 3D printing.
