Selective laser melting (SLM) is routinely used in the additive manufacture (3D printing) of high value, geometrically complex components from a variety of metal alloys and plastics. This is currently achieved through galvo-scanning a high power, fixed wavelength laser to melt successive powder layers. I will introduce an alternative approach to SLM based on the application of a high-density array of semiconductor lasers, with potential to radically improve productivity, flexibility, efficiency and cost. The broad spectrum available in the semiconductor laser palette allows lasers to be matched to the absorption peak of the material being processed, and opens a wealth of opportunities for new integrated photonic solutions.
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