Direct selective laser sintering of metals

Abstract

Considers efforts to date to produce parts by direct selective laser sintering (SLS) of metals, including post processing to improve structural integrity and/or to induce a transformation. Provides a brief overview of the basic principles of SLS machine operation, and discusses materials issues affecting direct SLS of metals and the resultant properties and microstructures of the parts. Reviews results of past efforts on SLS of metal systems such as Cu-Sn, Cu-Solder (Pb-Sn), Ni-Sn, pre-alloyed bronze (Cu-Sn). Finally discusses more recent efforts on SLS of bronze-nickel powder mixtures in greater detail.