SLM (Metal 3D)
Direct sintering or melting of metal powder. It produces fully dense metal components.
How it works
1. Atmosphere preparation
The print chamber is sealed and filled with argon to reduce oxygen content below 0.1%, eliminating the risk of reactive metals reacting.
2. Material deposition
A spreading mechanism applies a microscopic layer of metal powder (often 20-50 microns) onto a solid metal base plate, to which the part will fuse.
3. Full melting (welding)
A high-energy fiber laser melts (not merely sinters) the metal particles. The melt pools fuse with the previous layers into 100% dense metal.
4. Managing thermal stresses
The extreme temperature gradients cause strong stresses. The part is anchored by solid support structures, which act as heat sinks.
5. Heat treatment and cutoff
To relieve the stresses, the build plate with the parts goes through a high-temperature furnace. Only afterward is it cut off with EDM wire.
Tools that solve real problems
Dozens of tools used by professional 3D shops, inside your EduFacturing dashboard. Some are free with an account; the rest are part of the Pro plan.
Which material do I need?
Configurator across dozens of filaments and resins with live AWIN data. Find the right one by application, tech and properties.
Which printer should I buy?
Configurator over thousands of models: hobby to industrial. Recommendation matching your budget, with live AWIN pricing.
Which 3D tech fits my project?
Technology selector: FDM, SLA, SLS, MJF, SLM… Recommendation based on part, batch size and quality you need.
How do I make my part printable?
DfAM configurator: geometry analysis, recommendations for walls, overhangs, supports, orientation. Cut trial-and-error cycles.
Where do I start with 3D printing?
Personal start guide: based on your profile (hobby / business / education) finds the right steps, products and materials.
FDM vs SLA vs SLS: which one for me?
Side-by-side tech comparison: resolution, speed, strength, cost, surface finish. Decide on numbers, not marketing.
How much does my print cost?
Calculate cost in seconds: material, power, depreciation, labor, profit margin. Save quotes to your library.
My print keeps failing?
Defect diagnostic: symptom → cause → fix. Save hours of painful trial-and-error.
What slicer settings should I use?
223-parameter slicer reference + profile generator per printer + material. Drop straight into Cura/PrusaSlicer/Bambu.
I have a project: where do I start?
Structured plan: phases, materials, budget, timeline. Bill of Materials generated + client-ready export.
I want everything about one material
Interactive book per material: chemistry, mechanics, printability, post-processing, real cases. PLA ships first, more on the way.
How do I manage my material inventory?
Personal spool inventory: ratings, leftovers, side-by-side comparisons. Always know what you have.