LPBF-process Metal 3D Printing

The LPBF-process

Laser powder bed fusion explained on the BOLDSERIES

The LPBF process

How does laser powder bed fusion work?

1. Powder supply

Powder supply using cartridges

2. Coating

Powder deposition with coater

3. Fusing

Fusing process of the powder by the laser

4. Lowering

Lowering the building platform & repeat steps 1-4 until the component height is reached

LPBF process 1 Powder Supply

1. Powder supply

Powder supply using cartridges

LPBF process 2 Coating

2. Coating

Powder deposition with coater

LPBF process 3 Fusing

3. Fusing

Fusing process of the powder by the laser

LPBF process 4 Lowering Build Plate

4. Lowering

Decrease the building platform & repeat steps 1-4 until the component height is reached

The process chain of metal 3D printing

We have summarized all steps from preparation to postprocessing for you here.

LPBF process chain data creation

1. Data preparation

  • CAD modelling: No component without a design template. For you, this means that you have to design the component in advance with a 3D optimised CAD software.
  • STL export: Once you have finished designing, export your model.
LPBF process chain data preparation

2. Data preparation

  • Preparation
  • Supports generation: Most components require additional supports, e.g. for overhangs or certain angles. See also the support setting options in our MPREP software.
  • Parameter selection: To ensure optimum printability of the components, we have developed material-specific parameter sets. Settings such as scan speed, laser power or track distance are matched to the properties of the print material to enable perfect interaction between powder and laser.
  • Simulation
  • Slicing and Preview
LPBF process chain data preparation

3. Print preparation

  • Insert powder supply cartridges
  • Insert build module
  • (insert overflow cartridge)
  • Load print job
  • Inerting
LPBF process chain build process
LPBF process chain build module

4. Printing process

LPBF Process

  1. Powder supply
    Powder supply using powder cartridges
  2. Coating
    Powder deposition by the coater
  3. Fusing
    Fusing process of the powder by the laser
  4. Decreasing
    Decrease the building platform & repeat steps 1-4 until the component height is reached
LPBF process chain part powder
LPBF process chain part on plate

5. Unpacking process

  • Take the construction module from MPRINT+ out and insert it into MPURE
  • Rough powder removal using gloves
  • Removing powder from interspaces and support structures
LPBF process chain part plate separated

6. Separation of the component and the building platform

  • Separation by band saw or spark erosion
LPBF process chain part support removed

7. Post-processing of the component

  • Support removal
  • Beams
  • Surface treatment