Several additive manufacturing techniques are used in the production of end use parts. Complex geometries and low volume production requirements typify components that are likely candidates for Direct Digital Manufacturing. ATI consultants bring both world-class expertise in additive manufacturing and the manufacturing industry experience to ensure you make the right choice. DDM techniques include:

Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)

SLS is an additive fabrication process that uses a CO₂ laser to sinter (fuse) powders together layer by layer to create a
3-dimensional part. Thermoplastic and metal powders are used to create functional parts. SLS materials include:

• Nylon
• Glass-filled nylon
• Steel w/bronze infiltration

Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS)

DMLS is an additive manufacturing technique typically used for production of complex metal parts with low production levels. The primary advantage over traditional methods is that no special tooling is required. Parts are built directly from CAD model representations in a matter of hours using a variety of metal alloy materials. Built layer by layer, DMLS affords the opportunity to vary material properties within components in ways that would be difficult or impossible using traditional manufacturing methods. DMLS materials include:

• Stainless Steel
• Direct Metal
• Cobalt Chrome
• Titanium

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)

FDM involves the use of extrusion heads that lay down thermoplastics in a layer by layer additive manufacturing process to create plastic parts directly from digital CAD models. Complex geometries and low production volumes are particularly attractive candidates for FDM production.