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Selective Laser Melting (SLM) Fully Melted Metal Parts with Maximum Density

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SLM 3D Printer
Technology Overview

Why Choose SLM?

Complete powder melting for ultra-high density metal parts with superior mechanical properties and fine surface detail. Selective Laser Melting achieves near-theoretical density for high-performance aerospace and medical parts that require maximum density and strength.

Why manufacture with SLM

Advanced manufacturing capabilities enable complex geometries, functional prototypes, and end-use production parts that would be impossible or cost-prohibitive with traditional manufacturing methods. From functional prototypes to end-use production parts, this technology delivers exceptional performance across demanding industries.

Build volume
250 x 250 x 325 mm
Tolerance
±0.1mm to ±0.3mm (Feature dependent)
Layer height
0.02 - 0.05 mm

SLM Technology · Production-Ready

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Selective Laser Melting technology example showing SLM 3D printing capabilities and quality

Advanced Applications

Advanced Manufacturing Components

The SLM manufacturing process delivers precision parts through controlled layer-by-layer construction, ensuring consistent quality and mechanical properties.

Production applications

Advanced Manufacturing Solutions

The SLM manufacturing process delivers precision parts through controlled layer-by-layer construction, ensuring consistent quality and mechanical properties.

Key advantages

Complex geometries: Intricate internal channels, overhangs, and assemblies impossible with traditional manufacturing.

Functional prototypes: Test mechanical properties and fit before investing in production tooling.

Custom tooling: Jigs, fixtures, and manufacturing aids tailored to specific production requirements.

End-use parts: Production components for aerospace, medical, automotive, and industrial applications.

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SLM automotive components
SLM medical devices
SLM aerospace components
SLM complex geometries
Material Library

Available Materials

Choose from our range of high-performance materials optimized for SLM technology. Each material is carefully selected for superior performance, reliability, and finish quality.

  • Titanium Ti-6Al-4V Part
    Metal

    Titanium Ti-6Al-4V

    Titanium Ti-6Al-4V (Grade 5) is the most widely used titanium alloy in aerospace and automotive applications.

    Tensile Strength
    1080 MPa
    Elastic Modulus
    110 GPa
    Temp Resistance
    350 °C
    Material details

    This alpha-beta alloy offers an exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and excellent corrosion resistance.

    Aerospace-Grade Lightweight Alloy

    Compliance

    ASTM B348 Grade 5/ASTM F2924/ASTM F3302

    Applications

    Aerospace Structures/Precision Components/Automotive Racing/Sports Equipment

    View datasheetDownload PDF
  • Inconel 718 Part
    Available Material

    Inconel 718

    High-temperature nickel alloy with outstanding strength retention at extreme temperatures

    Tensile Strength
    See datasheet
    Flexural Modulus
    See datasheet
    Temp Resistance
    See datasheet
    Material details

    Engineering Grade Material

    Applications

    Turbine components/Aerospace engines/Heat exchangers/High-temperature applications

  • Stainless Steel 316L Part
    Metal

    Stainless Steel 316L

    Stainless Steel 316L is the most popular 3D printed metal at Forge Labs for corrosion-resistant 3D printed parts.

    Tensile Strength
    630 MPa
    Elastic Modulus
    185 GPa
    Temp Resistance
    See datasheet
    Material details

    It combines high strength, excellent ductility, and strong chloride resistance, making it a go-to material for marine hardware, chemical processing equipment, food production components, and precision industrial assemblies.

    Marine-Grade Austenitic Stainless Steel

    Compliance

    ASTM F138 (UNS S31673) chemistry/REACH Regulation (EC) 1907/2006

    Applications

    Industrial Components/Chemical Processing/Food Processing/Marine Applications

    View datasheetDownload PDF
  • Aluminum AlSi10Mg Part
    Metal

    Aluminum AlSi10Mg

    Aluminum AlSi10Mg is a casting alloy specifically optimized for Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) additive manufacturing.

    Tensile Strength
    461 / 466 MPa
    Elastic Modulus
    75 / 70 GPa
    Temp Resistance
    See datasheet
    Material details

    This versatile material combines the lightweight properties of aluminum with silicon and magnesium additions that enhance strength, hardness, and castability.

    Lightweight High-Performance Metal Alloy

    Compliance

    DIN EN 1706 (EN AC-43000)/ASTM F3318-18

    Applications

    Aerospace Components/Automotive Systems/Heat Management/Industrial Equipment

    View datasheetDownload PDF
Design Guidelines

SLM Design Guidelines

Critical SLM guidelines below are a primer only. Use the full guide for complete design requirements and edge-case rules.

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Full design guidance for this technology is available in our design guide library.

Selective Laser Melting advantages
Technology Advantages

Why teams choose SLM

Selective Laser Melting offers unique advantages for modern manufacturing applications, delivering exceptional performance and versatility for both prototyping and production requirements. Key benefits include cost-effective manufacturing, superior material properties, and the ability to produce complex geometries that would be impossible or expensive with traditional manufacturing methods.

01Maximum Density
Complete powder melting achieves >99.9% density with minimal porosity
02Superior Fatigue Performance
Homogeneous microstructure provides excellent fatigue resistance for critical applications
03Fine Detail Resolution
Precise melt pool control enables fine features and excellent surface quality
04Material Excellence
Properties often exceed wrought materials due to fine grain structure
Instant Quote Tool

From Upload to Delivery

Upload files, configure manufacturing specs, and track production in one workflow built for engineering teams.

File upload interface
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Step 01

Upload CAD Files

Automated file checks before production

Drop your CAD files and receive immediate manufacturability feedback. Critical geometry and wall checks run as soon as files are uploaded.

  • Upload STEP, STL, OBJ, and production drawing files
  • Auto-detection for thin walls and trapped volumes
  • Instant design feedback before checkout
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Industry Applications

SLM Applications Across Industries

Selective Laser Melting (SLM) supports real production workflows when teams need speed, repeatability, and geometries that are difficult to manufacture with conventional processes.

Explore the industry examples below to see typical part types and where this process is the best fit for performance, cost, and lead time.

Highlighted Case Study

Aerospace Components case study

Aerospace

Aerospace Components case study

See how teams deploy SLM in this application.

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Ready to manufacture your parts?

Upload your CAD files to get instant quotes for SLM 3D printing. Professional-grade manufacturing with fast turnaround times.

  • Instant pricing with automated manufacturability analysis
  • Production workflows built for repeatable quality
  • Engineering support from prototype to production
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STEP, STL, OBJ, 3MF and IGES supported

Manufacturing technologies
6
Engineering materials
50+
Part quantities
1-500+
Frequently Asked Questions

SLM Questions & Answers

Common questions about SLM 3D printing technology. Can't find what you're looking for? Reach out to our technical team.