Important Index and Parameters of 3D Metal Printing

There are several important parameters in 3D metal printing, but among them, laser power, scan speed, scan spacing, layer thickness, are the most important parameters.

From these 4 parameters, we can calculate the energy density per unit volume.

Energy density is common and basic index used in 3D metal printing. Generally, energy density is about 40~80 J/㎜^3 for standard materials. However, for certain materials, the energy density may vary greatly.

This value is very helpful, but you need to be careful when you use it. Even when the values of the energy density are same, it can bring good and bad effects. For example, when laser power and scan speed are both doubled, the energy density stays the same. However, by changing those two parameters, it lessens build time but roughens the surface.

When using 3D metal printing, checking energy density is not enough. You also need to check other parameters that controls the energy density and coordinate them according to the usage of the products.