Laser Beam Melting for Tooling Applications - New Perspectives for Resource-Efficient Metal Forming and Die Casting Processes

Applying additive manufacturing technologies in the tooling sector is reaching a new level with Laser Beam Melting, since this technology allows layer-by-layer manufacturing of completely dense tool and die inserts in standard high-alloyed tool steel. The technology is now ready to go beyond applications in low impact processes like plastic injection moulding and enters metal working process applications like metal forming and die casting. The potential of additive manufacturing for added value in tooling applications has now been investigated for various metal working processes.