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The main difference between SLM and EBM technology in the production of tantalum-titanium alloys

The main differences between SLM (selective laser melting) and EBM (electron beam melting) technology in the production of tantalum-titanium alloys are reflected in the following aspects:

Heat source
• SLM: Use laser as the heat source. The laser beam selectively melts the metal powder through high energy focusing, so that it is completely melted and solidified.
• EBM: Use electron beam as the heat source. The energy of electron beam is usually stronger than that of laser, which can effectively melt high melting point metals and is suitable for the processing of active metals such as tantalum.

Working environment
• SLM: It is carried out under the protection of inert gas (such as argon) to prevent oxidation of metal powder. This environment helps to maintain the purity of the material, but may result in relatively low energy utilization.
• EBM: It is carried out in a vacuum environment, which can effectively avoid oxidation and impurity contamination, while allowing higher preheating temperatures, which helps to reduce residual stress in parts. Processing temperature
• SLM: Usually works at a lower temperature, and the preheating temperature generally does not exceed 300℃. This lower temperature helps to form a delicate microstructure, but may result in higher residual stress.
• EBM: Processing can be performed at temperatures ranging from 600°C to 1200°C. Such high temperatures help reduce residual stress and improve the mechanical properties of the material.

Powder properties and layer thickness
• SLM: Using metal powders with smaller particle sizes (10-50 microns), the powder layer thickness is usually between 50-100 microns, which helps to produce finer structures and better surface quality.


• EBM: Using metal powders with larger particle sizes (50-120 microns), the powder layer thickness is about 100 microns. Although this makes the deposition speed faster, it may result in higher surface roughness. Part characteristics
• SLM: The manufactured parts usually have higher surface quality and smaller details, and are more suitable for applications that require high precision and complex shapes, such as medical devices and precision parts.
• EBM: Although the surface roughness is larger, its parts have less deformation and stress cracking, and are more suitable for parts that are used in high load or high temperature environments.
Through these comparisons, it can be seen that SLM and EBM each have unique advantages and applicable scenarios. Choosing the right technology depends on the specific application requirements.