Laser Power

Theoretical Background

Laser Power ($P$, measured in Watts [W]) is one of the most critical parameters in Powder Bed Fusion (PBF), specifically Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS). It represents the rate at which thermal energy is delivered to the powder bed. The interaction between the laser beam and the metal powder initiates rapid localized heating, melting, and solidification, forming the consolidated tracks that make up the 3D-printed component.

The Volumetric Energy Density (VED) Equation

In DMLS, process developers use the Volumetric Energy Density ($E_V$, expressed in ${\text{J/mm}}^3$) as a first-order thermodynamic approximation to characterize the thermal input: