DMLS Direct Metal Laser Sintering: 13 models

DMLS, Direct Metal Laser Sintering, is the name EOS uses for its metal laser powder bed fusion process (LPBF). Despite the word sintering, the powder is fully melted: a recoater lays down a thin layer of metal powder on the build plate, a fiber laser melts the cross-section of the layer, the platform lowers and the cycle repeats under argon or nitrogen. Physically this is the same process other manufacturers call SLM; the split on this site follows the manufacturer's terminology, so the machines from Nikon SLM Solutions, Concept Laser, Renishaw, Farsoon and 3D Systems are listed under SLM. Materials include aluminum, titanium, nickel-based and cobalt-chrome alloys, tool and stainless steels, and copper; parts are dense but need supports, heat treatment and finishing.

The catalog covers the EOS lines EOSINT M 250 Xtended, M 270 and M 280, the current M 100, M 290 (including the 1kW and -2 versions), M 300-4, M 400 and M 400-4, plus the M4 ONYX and the PRECIOUS M 080 for precious metals, together with the Matsuura LUMEX Avance-25, a hybrid machine that combines laser melting and high-speed milling in one unit. The M 280 and M 290 are the models most often sought and offered second-hand, followed by the M 270 and M 400.

For a used machine, check laser hours and laser output, the condition of scanner, protective window, recoater blade and filter unit, and the gas tightness of the process chamber. EOS ties parameters and powder to material licenses, while open parameters are possible depending on machine generation and software version; EOSPRINT and EOSTATE licenses, the service contract and their transferability to the new operator need to be clarified. Powder handling with an ATEX vacuum and an IPCM station is part of the cell, as are the utilities for power, inert gas and compressed air. Below you will find the technical data of all 13 DMLS models in our catalog, together with those currently offered second-hand.