Laser metal deposition (LMD) is an additive manufacturing process in which a high-powered laser beam forms a melt pool on a metallic substrate, into which powder is fed.
The deposition process, which is also known as Laser Directed Energy Deposition (DDLB / LDED), typically uses metal powders, although ceramics can also be used alongside them for certain applications.
As with laser welding processes, LMD processes use the heat from a laser to form a melt pool, except, rather than a wire consumable being used with the laser, powder is fed into the pool.
The heat of the pool melts the powder, forming a deposit that is fusion-bonded to the substrate. The required geometry is built up in this way, layer by layer, in a similar manner to other 3D printing and additive manufacturing processes. Both the laser and nozzle from which the powder is delivered are manipulated using a gantry system or robotic arm.