Selective laser melting of biocompatible metals for rapid manufacturing of medical parts

Purpose This paper seeks to investigate the possibility of producing medical or dental parts by selective laser melting (SLM). Rapid Manufacturing could be very suitable for these applications due to their complex geometry, low volume and strong individualization. Design/methodology/approach The SLM‐process has been optimized and fully characterized for two biocompatible metal alloys: Ti‐6Al‐4V and Co‐Cr‐Mo. Mechanical and chemical properties were tested and geometrical feasibility, including process accuracy and surface roughness, was discussed by benchmark studies. By developing a procedure to fabricate frameworks for complex dental prostheses, the potential of SLM as a medical manufacturing technique has…