This page explains the Shapeways metal 3D printing Contest. The material we will use for this contest is Titanium. There is more information on this blog post.

The process that we will use is metal laser sintering (or Direct Metal Laser Sintering, DMLS). It is similar to regular SLS that we use at Shapeways for our White, Strong & Flexible material. The major difference is that a fine metal powder is used to layer by layer build up your model. The powder is melted and solidified by a laser beam that moves over a box filled with powder in minute layers.

DMLS can produce cobalt-chrome alloys, steel, stainless steel alloys, bronze and titanium alloys. The finish of the part is a bit rougher than a CNC milled part. But, because of the 3D printing process you can truly design a much more complex shape than one made by CNC. The level of detail is also an incredible 0.1mm!


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Due to the material properties of the titanium you will have to take some design rules into account when designing for this contest. If you do not take these rules into account then you will not be able to win because your part can simply not be produced.

• The maximum dimensions of your model can be up to 50x50x50mm.
• The maximum volume of your model can be up to 10 cubic centimeters.
• The minimum wall thickness of your model should not be less than 0.2mm.
• Details can be as small as 0.1mm.

Think free form: as in non-rectangular, organically shaped and not able to be produced by any other process.


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Think about the angles when designing. Low angles (as in less than 35 degrees) tend to make 3d metal printed parts look rougher and less attractive. Right angles and other steep angles tend to make a part look more attractive. Overhanging parts at right angles are also not as attractive.
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