SLM Drives 3D Prototyping Process

Dec. 20, 2013

Computer-controlled lasers play a role in 3D manufacturing of lightweight passive microwave components.

Based on the use of selective laser melting (SLM), the European Space Agency (ESA) has pursued the development of a complete end-to-end 3D manufacturing process for lightweight passive microwave components for telecommunications payloads. The thermal and mechanical requirements of these components and microwave assemblies are critical for satellite applications, where stable performance must be maintained over long operating lifetimes, with minimal weight and volume. The SLM technology is a 3D additive manufacturing process that builds components and assemblies layer by layer.

About the Author

Jack Browne | Technical Contributor

Jack Browne, Technical Contributor, has worked in technical publishing for over 30 years. He managed the content and production of three technical journals while at the American Institute of Physics, including Medical Physics and the Journal of Vacuum Science & Technology. He has been a Publisher and Editor for Penton Media, started the firm’s Wireless Symposium & Exhibition trade show in 1993, and currently serves as Technical Contributor for that company's Microwaves & RF magazine. Browne, who holds a BS in Mathematics from City College of New York and BA degrees in English and Philosophy from Fordham University, is a member of the IEEE.