Part properties research of direct metal forming

Direct metal forming (DMF) has been a hot subject in today's rapid prototyping technology. A novel direct metal forming process based on arc welding is introduced and the part properties made by this process are evaluated. Examination of the parts' density, strength, hardness and microstructure showed that the mechanical properties and structure of part made by DMF process are better than SLS(selective laser sintering) process. When different metallic materials are used, the differences of chemical component, physical property and microstructure will cause unfavorable influence on the part's property.