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I know that the SLS 3D printer stands for Selective Laser Sintering, whereas DMLS stands for Direct Metal Laser Sintering.

I want to know whether I can convert SLS 3D printer to DMLS, by just changing powder or another way?

Greenonline
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nihaljp
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2 Answers2

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By just changing powder: No.

Changing the powder, the laser and the chamber, maybe you can get something, but it's not recommended.

DMLS machines use a sealed chamber with a flow of argon, nitrogen, or other gas to prevent oxidation of metal powder (and avoid fire or explosions).

Laser power for metal needs to be of higher power than that used for polymer laser sintering (SLS, SLM, LS, etc.).

BTW, DMLS also need a metallic build plate to dissipate heat.

Greenonline
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JorgePerez
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Totally agreed with the answer provided by JorgePerez.

To add to that answer, the use of DMLS lies on the thickness and material limitations of SLS method. So, regarding the amount of thickness, the original source of sizing for both the methods vary drastically and hence cannot be inter-converted.

Greenonline
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Lawrence B. Deleon
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