Selected Problems of Additive Manufacturing Using SLS/SLM Processes

Abstract

Additive Manufacturing (AM) based on Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) and Selective Laser Melting (SLM) is relatively widely used to manufacture complex shape parts made from metallic alloys, ceramic and polymers. Although the SLM process has many advantages over the conventional machining, main disadvantages are the relatively poor surface quality and the occurrence of the material structure defect porosity.The paper presents key problems directly related to the implementation of AM, and in particular the selection and optimization of process conditions. The first section examines the issues of dimensional accuracy, the second surface quality and porosity problem determining the mechanical properties of manufactured products.