In the world of metal additive manufacturing, the industry often equates “more” with “better.” More lasers must mean faster prints and higher quality, right? Not exactly. While multi-laser systems can improve speed and throughput, they introduce an often-overlooked variable: synchronization. Simply adding lasers without ensuring their perfect calibration can actually degrade print quality instead of improving it.
When lasers in a system are misaligned or miscalibrated, the results are visible in the final part. You might see seam lines where the laser paths intersect, weak zones due to inconsistent fusion, or excessive porosity. These inconsistencies are especially problematic in applications requiring high mechanical performance, such as aerospace or automotive components. It’s not about how many lasers you have, it’s about how precisely they’re working together.
That’s why calibration and synchronization are essential. Each laser must be aligned with micrometer-level accuracy and coordinated in real time with the others. At Scojet, we focus heavily on laser diagnostics, machine calibration protocols, and periodic verification to ensure every print meets the exact tolerances our clients demand. Print quality depends more on control than brute force.
For manufacturers evaluating multi-laser systems, the lesson is clear: prioritize calibration tools and strategies. Speed is important, but quality keeps parts in service, and calibration keeps quality consistent.