Abstract
Laser Additive Manufacturing (LAM) is a rapid manufacturing technique capable of producing complex
three-dimensional parts rapidly from CAD (computer aided design) models by melting or sintering
successive thin layers of powder with a laser beam. LAM with metallic powders is widely adopted in
the industrial world as an effective method for the trial or direct manufacturing of molding dies with
inner cooling channels and complex mechanical parts, particularly in the automobile and aerospace
industries. LAM is also available as an attractive option in the medical world for the fabrication of
various tailor-made implants. This review article introduces the principles, characteristics, and technical
trends of the LAM process. We also present partial results from our research into LAM processes using
carbon steel powders and titanium powders to fashion extremely strong materials and metallic
biomaterials, respectively.
