Tiếng Việt
Metal 3D printing is fairly new, and because its potential is clear, many big players in the field have focused on researching and developing SLM metal 3D printers. As of 2025, many companies now build metal 3D printers and offer metal 3D printing services. However, costs are still high, so businesses still find it hard to adopt this technology in production.
Metal 3D printing technology.
Metal 3D printing differs from technologies like FDM or DLP. It uses metal powder as the feedstock and a high-power laser as the energy source. The metal is built up layer by layer into a finished part. Because it is used directly in production, metal 3D printers require far more research investment and a much more advanced factory than ordinary 3D printers.Some metal 3D printed samples:
Metal 3D printing is used in many fields: mechanical engineering, dentistry and jewelry. The potential of the 3D printing industry is huge worldwide.
Metal 3D printed part.
Metal 3D printed part.
Metal 3D printed part.
Metal 3D printed part.
Metal 3D printed part.
Metal 3D printed part.
It replaces traditional machining and CNC work that takes many separate operations. With metal printing, the user just presses a button and the machine does the rest.
- It makes highly complex parts that traditional machining cannot.
- It is much faster than traditional machining.
- It costs less than traditional machining for small, one-off orders.
- It makes the most of the input material.
>> FDM 3D printers
Author: Nguyen Van Cuong.
Tel/Viber/Zalo/Skype: 0975 008 728
Contact CT3D Group
CT3D Group – professional 3D printing, 3D scanning, design and rapid prototyping services nationwide.
- CT3D Thu Duc – Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Hai Phong: in3d.edu.vn – Hotline 0975 008 728 (Mr. Thai)
- CT3D District 6 – Ho Chi Minh City: 3dmaker.vn – Hotline 038 7798308 (Mr. Phuc)
Metal 3D printing applications by industry
Metal 3D printing does not replace all traditional machining. It shines on parts with complex shapes, low volumes or a need to cut weight. Some typical applications:
| Field | Typical parts | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanical, tooling | Mold cores with conformal cooling channels, fixtures | Even cooling, shorter molding cycles |
| Dental | Denture frameworks, metal crowns | Customized from intraoral scan data |
| Jewelry | Rings, lattice pendants | Shapes that are hard to cast traditionally |
| Aerospace, automotive | Topology-optimized brackets, nozzles | Lower weight, several parts combined into one |
| Medical | Surgical tools, custom implants | Fits each patient’s anatomy |
Design rules for metal 3D printing
To get the most from the technology and keep costs down, design parts with an additive manufacturing mindset instead of copying drawings made for subtractive machining:
- Limit low-angle surfaces: overhangs that are too close to horizontal usually need supports, which adds post-processing time.
- Consolidate parts: a multi-part assembly can often be designed as one solid piece, cutting welds and bolts.
- Optimize the structure: use lattice structures or topology optimization to reduce weight while keeping enough strength.
- Leave machining allowance: mating surfaces and precision holes should have extra stock for milling or reaming after printing.
- Plan for powder removal: internal channels need an exit so excess metal powder can be cleaned out.
If your company is thinking about moving a part to metal printing, start with a test sample to evaluate mechanical properties and cost. See our custom metal 3D printing service for advice on design and the right material.
Frequently asked questions
Is metal 3D printing cheaper than CNC machining?
Not always. Metal printing is usually cost-effective for complex parts in low volumes. For simple parts in large volumes, CNC machining or casting usually costs less.
Are metal 3D printed parts fully dense?
With a standard process, printed parts usually reach very high density, close to fully solid. Still, critical load-bearing parts should be inspected and heat treated.
Which metals can be 3D printed?
Common choices are stainless steel, tool steel, aluminum alloys, titanium alloys, cobalt-chrome alloys and some nickel alloys. The choice depends on mechanical requirements, operating environment and cost.
Can I metal 3D print from a 3D scan file?
Yes, but the scan file needs processing and usually has to be rebuilt in CAD to ensure accurate dimensions, suitable wall thickness and machining allowance.
Related services at CT3D Group
- SLM metal 3D printing service
- Custom 3D printing service
- 3D scanning service – high-accuracy 3D scanning
- CT3D Group network: ct3dgroup.com · in3d.edu.vn – Hotline/Zalo 0975 008 728
