What is the difference between SLS and SLM 3D printing?

To be fair, it’s probably more important at this stage to understand that the original statement is utter twaddle and only deserves to be removed Feel free to discuss

It′s important to clarify the roughness of the surface is directly related to the size of the feedstock material used because the skin of the part is formed by the half melted particles of the powder in the outerskirts of the melted area.

If you do it correctly, it is fully melted and remains so until the heaters turn off at the end of the build. A certain amount of understanding of the process is usually required rather than it being plug and play though.

The key difference between the two processes is that SLS sinters the powder, while SLM melts it. SLS is typically used to print parts from thermoplastic powders, while SLM is used to print parts from metal powders. SLS results in slightly grainy finish and may require post-processing while SLM results a nice smooth surface.

But with this method I think with no melting materials heat (just liquidfying) we get crush easy body with seperate lines which limit uses of product

The working principle of selective laser melting (SLM) molding technology is similar to that of selective laser sintering (SLS). The main difference lies in the way the powders are combined. SLS binds high-melting-point metal or non-metallic powders together through the melting of low-melting-point metals or binders. SLM technology completely melts metal powders, so it requires a laser. The power density is much higher than SLS. In order to achieve instantaneous melting of metal powder, a high-power density laser is required, and the spot is focused to tens of μm. SLM technology currently uses fiber lasers, with laser power ranging from 50W to 400W, and power density reaching more than 5×106W/cm2.

the key difference is that SLS uses a laser to sinter (partially melt) material powder, whereas SLM completely melts the material powder. This fundamental difference in the melting process makes SLM suitable for high-strength metal components, while SLS can work with various materials, including polymers and some metals, to create prototypes and functional parts.

The international standards bodies (ISO/ASTM) don't use the term SLM any more, since "SLM" is actually a trade name pioneered by a specific company. They use the PBF-LB (Powder Bed Fusion - Laser Beam), which is an accurate, neutral term. It would be worthwhile explaining that all of these are equivalent: SLM DMLS PBF-LB LPBF LaserCUSING

Well ,to gather cons and prons of two methods we can use both at one producing part according to levels of required mechanical properties

SLM (selective laser melting) stands for selective laser melting. SLM technology uses a laser to directly heat the metal powder to completely melt it in a cooled forming technology.

I would not add the color as and advantage since is a strange concept while talking about metals. Also would not compare on cost since they are for completely diferent materials.

SLS is great for making plastic prototypes, and the cheaper material and machine costs (lower power lasers and minimal inert gas shielding) make SLS a cost-effective prototyping option.

Increased durability of SLS production parts can be achieved with the addition of chopped fiber, such as fiberglass, or other materials into the powder mixture. Significant increases in tensile strength and impact resistance.

Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) is like discovering a box of creative tools! We’ve got the freedom to play with various materials, craft intricate designs, and say goodbye to support structures! ?? Plus, the durability means our creations aren’t just for show – they’re ready for real-world action! ?? And who doesn’t love a bit of efficiency with material reuse and speedy prototyping?

From the above two introductions, it is not difficult to see that although the principle of both technologies is to use the thermal action of the laser beam, the lasers used by SLS and SLM lasers are also different due to the different objects of action. SLS technology typically uses CO2 lasers with a longer wavelength (9.2-10.8 microns). In order to better melt metals, SLM technology requires the use of laser beams with high metal absorption, so laser beams with shorter wavelengths such as Nd-YAG lasers (1.064 microns) and fiber lasers (1.09 microns) are generally used.

Metals are stronger, harder and denser than polymers? No!! Really?? Who would have thought it, eh? This is sub-primary school stuff and really shouldn't be on here.

Exploring the advantages of Selective Laser Melting (SLM) feels like uncovering hidden treasures! We’re talking about crafting parts that are super dense and strong, creating designs that make you go ‘wow’, and tailoring every piece to fit like a glove! ? Plus, it’s a win-win with efficient material use and no need for extra tooling. Whether it’s crafting lightweight components for a spaceship ?? or a unique implant, the possibilities are endless!

The two technologies differ significantly in terms of materials. SLS technology requires the addition of a certain proportion of binder powder, while SLM technology uses pure metal powders. As a result, the strength and mechanical properties of SLS sintered parts are generally lower than those of SLM due to the use of mixed powder and physical voids in the sintered parts.

This article was generated by artificial something, but there was little intelligence involved I’m afraid. @Linkedin team, please consider this article a fail, reset and try again. The content is way off the mark.

SLS Challenges: Dust and emissions: While SLS can indeed produce more dust and emissions compared to SLM, it might be worth mentioning that modern machines come with features to mitigate these issues, and that proper safety measures can further reduce risks.

Venturing into SLS 3D printing is like exploring a new frontier – it’s exciting but comes with a few obstacles. We’re dealing with a limited menu of materials, aiming for that perfect surface finish, and managing our energy use. ?? And let’s not forget the occasional part warping, powder management, and ensuring everyone’s safety! ?? Despite the challenges, every step brings us closer to uncovering the full possibilities of SLS!

It′s important explain other PBF can use other energy sources (e.g. Electron Beam ) and the high residual stresses, cracks and distortions in PBF-LB are very related to the challenge of the laser beam to control the cooling rate of the material, more energy needed to melt the material , bigger the challenges for laser beam .

SLM Challenges: Pre-heating and post-processing: It is correct that SLM requires substantial pre-heating and post-processing. Highlighting that this is to manage the thermal stresses and prevent deformations or cracks might provide a fuller picture of the challenges involved. SLM Advantages: Applications: While it is true that SLM is utilized in high-stress environments such as aerospace and automotive industries due to its ability to produce high-strength parts, highlighting that it's often used for critical components that require high mechanical integrity would be a great add-on.

Diving into the world of Selective Laser Melting (SLM) is like embarking on an adventure – it's full of possibilities but comes with its own set of challenges. Imagine grappling with the high costs of unique metal powders and equipment, not to mention the time spent on refining each creation! ??? Handling metal powders can be a bit tricky, and figuring out how to minimize stresses in our creations is a puzzle we’re solving. But hey, expanding our material options and ensuring each piece is top-notch are all part of the thrill! Here’s to unlocking the full potential of SLM!

SLM and other high power manufacturing methods typically need a controlled environment due to its material-melting nature. This is particularly critical for highly reactive materials like titanium or aluminum, which are prone to rapid oxidation when exposed to the energy of the laser in an oxygen-rich environment. Even for less reactive materials, maintaining a controlled environment during operation remains fundamental. The use of a protective atmospheres, vacuum or, any other type of controlled enviroment, while essential for safeguarding against oxidation, significantly inflates production costs.

Applications: SLS is often used for rapid prototyping and manufacturing functional plastic parts. SLM is more specialised and is primarily used in industries where high-strength metal components are required, such as aerospace, healthcare and automotive. Part Strength and Density: SLS parts may have some porosity and are generally not as strong or dense as SLM-produced metal parts. SLM produces fully dense and strong metal parts with properties comparable to traditionally manufactured metal components. Cost: SLS is generally more cost-effective than SLM, especially when using plastic materials. Metal SLM processes can be more expensive due to the higher energy requirements and the cost of metal powders.

Compare this two technologies are challengeing , they are pretty much the same energy source and application method over two completely diferent kinds of materials , it can even be applied jointly like in the new SLS metals making metalic green parts for subsequent sintering .

Porous and rough surface: While it is true that SLS generally results in a more porous and rougher surface compared to SLM, advancements in technology and post-processing techniques can somewhat mitigate these issues. Materials: The range of materials available for SLS is indeed broad, but noting that it can also work with a variety of polymers would be beneficial.