What is Laser Metal Deposition

Laser Metal Deposition (LMD) is a branch of Direct Energy Deposition (DED) and one of the youngest branches of metal 3D printing. LMD uses welding wire as its raw material. The first tests and devices for printing metal appeared in the 1990s but didn't match the properties of real metal. In the early 2000s, Wire Laser Metal Deposition (W-LMD) was developed, based on the sintering of metal powder and later with a wire-based methodology. The technology has its roots in laser welding (LBW), which was developed in the early 1970s. LBW proved to be faster and ideal for strong and fast joining. The integration of LBW with robotic arm technology has further enhanced its capabilities. In the second part of the last decade, Meltio developed a unique method of 3D printing based on LBW properties and created a special deposition head system with multiple lasers and welding wire control. This allows for a free change of the printing direction without compromising the quality and strength of the bond. Meltio devices are equipped with a 5-axis system and a constant deposition distance control, leading to better accuracy and uniformity in printing elements. W-LMD offers the advantage of integration, allowing for stand-alone 3D printing, integration with CNC machines, or a robotic arm-based system. Overall, W-LMD provides a brilliant solution for metal 3D printing. Contact us at 93404337 or Christian@3dverkstan.dk for more information. Read more: https://meltio3d.com/what-is-laser-metal-deposition/