Metal 3D printing is the most powerful — and most expensive — additive manufacturing technology available. It can produce complex metal parts that are impossible or impractical to machine, cast, or fabricate conventionally. But it's also the most specialized service to find. This guide explains everything you need to know before ordering metal 3D printing.
What Is Metal 3D Printing?
Metal 3D printing encompasses several distinct technologies. The most common for precision industrial parts are:
- DMLS (Direct Metal Laser Sintering): Uses a high-powered laser to sinter (fuse) metal powder particles together. Produces dense, near-fully-solid parts with excellent mechanical properties.
- SLM (Selective Laser Melting): Similar to DMLS but fully melts the powder rather than sintering it, producing slightly denser parts. Often used interchangeably with DMLS in commercial contexts.
- Binder Jetting: Uses a binding agent to hold metal powder together, then sinters the part in a furnace. Lower cost per part but slightly lower density than DMLS/SLM.
- EBAM / DED (Direct Energy Deposition): Uses an electron beam or laser to melt wire or powder feedstock — typically for very large parts or repair applications.
What Materials Are Available?
Most metal 3D printing service bureaus offer several of the following materials:
- Stainless steel (316L, 17-4 PH) — corrosion resistant, common for medical and food industry
- Tool steel — extremely hard, for tooling and mold inserts
- Titanium (Ti6Al4V) — lightweight, biocompatible, aerospace-grade
- Aluminum (AlSi10Mg) — lightweight structural parts, automotive
- Inconel 718/625 — high-temperature alloys for aerospace and turbine components
- Cobalt chrome — medical and dental implants
- Copper — electrical components, heat exchangers
Not all metal 3D printing services offer every material. Always confirm material availability with your chosen bureau before spending time on file preparation. Material availability varies significantly by location and machine type.
How Much Does Metal 3D Printing Cost?
Metal 3D printing is significantly more expensive than plastic printing. Typical price ranges:
| Part Size | Typical Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Small (fits in palm) | $150–$600 |
| Medium (fist-sized) | $400–$2,000 |
| Large (up to 200mm) | $1,000–$5,000+ |
| Complex assemblies | Quote-dependent |
Pricing depends on material, build volume, post-processing requirements, and certification requirements. Aerospace-certified bureaus charge a significant premium for material certifications and quality documentation.
What Are Typical Lead Times?
Metal 3D printing is not a same-day service. Typical lead times:
- Small parts via binder jetting: 5–7 business days
- DMLS/SLM standard service: 7–14 business days
- DMLS/SLM with certification: 2–4 weeks
- Rush service (if available): 3–5 business days at 50–100% premium
How to Find Metal 3D Printing Near You
Metal 3D printing services are much less common than FDM or SLA resin shops. They're concentrated in industrial and aerospace hubs: Southern California, Texas, Ohio, Michigan, and the Mid-Atlantic corridor. Here's how to find one:
- Use the 3DPrintMap metal printing directory to find service bureaus near you.
- Filter by material to ensure your required alloy is available.
- Check for quality certifications (ISO 9001, AS9100) if your application requires them.
- Request quotes from 2–3 bureaus — pricing varies significantly.
- Ask about post-processing: most metal prints require heat treatment, HIP (hot isostatic pressing), or machining of critical surfaces.
If you're evaluating whether SLS or MJF nylon could meet your requirements at a lower cost than metal, see our SLS vs. MJF comparison for a side-by-side of both powder-bed technologies.
Frequently Asked Questions
DMLS/SLM parts typically achieve 95–99% of the density and 90–100% of the strength of wrought material in many alloys. With post-processing (HIP, heat treatment), mechanical properties can match or exceed cast equivalents. Critical aerospace applications often require additional testing and certification.
Most common engineering metals can be 3D printed, but availability at service bureaus varies. Stainless steel and titanium are the most widely available. Exotic alloys like Inconel and cobalt chrome require specialized equipment. Gold and silver are available at specialized jewelry printing services.
Yes — most metal 3D printed parts require support removal, heat treatment, and often surface finishing (media blasting, polishing, or machining of critical surfaces). Most service bureaus offer these as additional services. Factor post-processing time and cost into your project plan.
Find Metal 3D Printing Services
Browse metal 3D printing service bureaus on 3DPrintMap — filter by material and location.
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