Fully dense components built using selective laser melting exhibit mechanical properties equivalent or even better than those of parts produced by conventional manufacturing [1] [2]. But building components using SLM sometimes requires external support structures. These support structures are necessary for a few reasons: they strengthen and fix the part to the building platform, they conduct excess heat away and they prevent warping or complete build failure.

This post is a review of the EOSINT M280 based on extensive, daily use of the machine. The EOSINT M280 is a 3D printing powder-bed unit used to manufacture metal parts. This production machine is based on Selective Laser Melting (SLM).