SLS System Builds with Titanium

By Sara Ferris

Wolverhampton University (Telford, UK) unveiled its new state-of-the-art metal laser sintering machine, which it says is the first in the world to run using titanium. 

The EOSINT M270 is one of only five in the United Kingdom, and the university’s Innovative Product Development Centre was chosen to demonstrate its titanium capability. The EOSINT M270 uses a focused laser beam to fuse metallic powder to form a solid part. Parts are built up layer by layer in an airtight process chamber. 

Titanium is suited to biomedical implants and parts that require both high mechanical properties and low specific weight—for example, structural and engine components for aerospace applications.

The EOSINT M270 from EOS handles a variety of metals, from light alloys to steel to composites. Its ability to work in titanium and other precious metals should appeal to companies that need rapid prototypes, low volumes of manufactured parts, replacement parts, and tooling inserts.

The university’s Innovative Product Development Center will work with local businesses to incorporate the technology into their product development processes. .

Dr Phil Extance, director of innovation at Advantage West Midlands, said: “The combination of this exciting process, which provides an excellent way of making awkwardly shaped objects, with the huge benefits and challenges of using titanium, opens up tremendous opportunities for companies producing components for aerospace and other challenging environments."

For more details about the University of Wolverhampton Innovative Product Development Center, go to http://www.wlv.ac.uk/Default.aspx?page=7121

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company's website.