This invention presents the process of direct laser casting of copper alloys: Cu--X (where X=Ni, Fe, W;) and their composites Cu--Y and Cu--X--Y (Y=WC, TiC, Ti+C) from powders prepared using mechanical mixing and ball milling processes. Since the metallic powder is combined with a low
A method for determining the areas of resin to be cured in an optical stereolithography process for rapid prototyping using sequential laser curing of layers of a resin having a selected thickness to produce a desired shape of cured resin. The method includes the steps of generating
A computer-controlled apparatus and method for producing metallic parts by laser melting selected regions of a layer(s) of metal powder at a target area are disclosed. The system includes devices for preheating and maintaining a relatively high temperature, e.g. 400.degree. C., of the
