Steps of an SLM project
1. RECEPTION OF THE CAD MODEL
In order to study the project, we need all possible information about the part you need to manufacture and its function within the system.
First, we receive the CAD model of the part, preferably in .step or .stl format .
If, in addition, we can see the whole assembly, we will better understand its functionality and we can propose some improvements to the part.
SLM technology offers dimensional tolerances in accordance with ISO2768mk and roughness between 6 and 15 Ra. If the part has more restrictive requirements, these must be indicated in a design drawing. To achieve these restrictive tolerances, post-processing operations (machining, polishing, etc.) will be necessary.
The key factors of the process are:
- Visible faces of the piece (where better aesthetic roughness is needed).
- Manufacturing material .
- Minimum number of pieces or batch of the project.
- Required surface finish or treatment (if applicable).
2. DESIGN FOR ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING
When preparing the model for manufacturing, we offer different design possibilities according to need:
A) Direct manufacturing of the received model.
B) Make small modifications to improve the manufacturing of the part:
C) Design from scratch to optimize additive manufacturing, reduce cost and improve functionality:
3. ORIENTATION, SUPPORT AND DISTRIBUTION
Once the final design is obtained, the parts are positioned on the machine using the corresponding software.
The orientation of the part during manufacturing defines the post-processes and the final cost of the part.
Depending on this, the support structures will be placed in the necessary areas.
The pieces are distributed on the plate and the optimal parameters for the chosen material are chosen. In this way, manufacturing data (time, volume, etc.) are obtained.
4. ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING
Once the manufacturing is finished, the pieces of the plate are separated and the supports are removed.
Finally, a sandblasting process is carried out to clean and homogenize the piece.
5. POST-PROCESSES
Depending on the dimensional, functional or aesthetic needs of the piece, it is possible to carry out different post-processes.
To achieve the most restrictive tolerances it is necessary to carry out a machining operation .
To improve roughness, different polishing processes are carried out: manual, vibrated, etc.
It is possible to carry out different treatments to achieve aesthetic finishes: painted, chrome, etc.
6. FINAL DELIVERY
After carrying out the corresponding quality controls , the pieces are sent to the customer.
If you have questions about the manufacturing process, you can go to the frequently asked questions (FAQ) section or contact us directly.