3D Printing with Selective Laser Melting (SLM)

Selective laser melting is an additive manufacturing process in which a laser melts and fuses thin layers of metal powder. After each layer is completed, a new layer of powder is applied and the process is repeated.

Because metal powders require high melting temperatures and the object is built layer by layer, internal stresses can occur during printing. These stresses may cause deformation or bending. Support structures help stabilize the object during the printing process and reduce distortion.