Simcast produces cobalt chrome frameworks, crown and bridge substructures and orthodontic metal work using selective laser melting (SLM), a digital manufacturing process that builds parts directly from CAD design files.
The process eliminates wax pattern production and investment casting, resulting in cases with consistent accurate fit and no casting porosity.
All SLM-printed frameworks at Simcast are hand finished and can be fully polished before despatch.
A high-power laser fuses cobalt chrome powder layer by layer, guided by a digital design file. The result is a fully dense metal framework whose geometry matches the design precisely.
The process is controlled directly from the digital file, allowing consistent and repeatable production without the variability associated with traditional casting methods.
For a more detailed comparison of SLM and traditional casting, including how the processes differ and where digital manufacturing offers advantages, see our Technology page.
Our team produces SLM-printed cobalt chrome RPD frameworks from digital files as a standard service.
We offer a wide range of framework options and retain every digital file so any case can be reproduced accurately from the original design.
Upload your digital file below with the completed lab sheet. We confirm receipt, review the design and proceed to production.
The finished framework is returned on an accurate printed model. See also our digital workflows and chrome cobalt frameworks pages.
What file formats do you accept for digital submissions?
We accept STL, OBJ, PLY and DCM files for digital submissions. If you are unsure about compatibility with your scanner or design software, please contact the laboratory.
What materials are used for SLM metal printing?
SLM frameworks are produced using dental-grade cobalt chrome alloy powder. Titanium production may also be possible on request.
Are SLM frameworks finished by hand?
Yes. All SLM frameworks are hand finished by our technicians. Different polishing options can be provided depending on the requirements of the case.
Can a framework be reproduced if it is lost or damaged?
Yes. Because frameworks are produced from a digital design file, they can be reprinted from the original file if a replacement is required.