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Laser Metal Deposition Services

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.

Laser Metal Deposition Manufacturing (LMD)

Advantages of LMD

Laser Metal Deposition offers a number of advantages, including:

  • Reduced material waste
  • Capable of creating complex geometric shapes, bespoke parts and prototypes
  • Able to make design changes quickly and efficiently through computer aided design
  • Cost reductions and reduced lead times on the manufacture of high-value parts
  • Can improve strength and durability compared to assembled components

Press Releases

Find out more about laser metal deposition at TWI:

Core Research Programme (CRP) and Joint Industry Projects (JIP)

Core Research

Each year the TWI Core Research Programme (CRP) addresses challenges on behalf of our Industrial Members as well as developing specific technologies and processes. Each of the projects under the CRP is focussed on engineering, materials or manufacturing technologies.

Find out more here

Joint Industry Projects

TWI also conducts Joint Industry Projects (JIPs) that bring together groups of Industrial Members to share the cost of research activities in areas of mutual industrial interest, gaining exclusive access to the outcomes. These projects cover a broad range of topics.

Find out more here

Laser Metal Deposition at TWI

LMD is one of several additive manufacturing processes that is governed by its own standards. TWI has been instrumental in the development of the process for over ten years, helping our Industrial Members to use it for a range of applications across different industry sectors.

Examples of our work with LMD include the repair of high value parts for the aerospace and defence industries, the tipping of turbine blades with protective coatings, the surfacing of oil and gas drilling components, repairing mould tool surfaces, and more.

For full details of our capabilities in this area, and to find out more about the process and the benefits it can bring to your business, please contact us.

For more information please email:


contactus@twi.co.uk