SLM Drives 3D Prototyping Process

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.