SLM Solutions Group, a German manufacturer of metal 3D printers, is working with nine global partners from different industries to reduce the time to market of new products.
The partners are developing a new production line for metallic 3D printing, with a focus on selective laser melting.
The nine other companies are: Curtiss-Wright Technologies, EDR & Medeso, Höganäs, University West Trollhättan, Nederman Holding, Quintus Technologies, Ringhals, Volvo Trucks and Swerea IVF.
Expanding production with the SLM 280 2.0
Swerea IVF, part of Swerea Group, is a Swedish research institute focusing on developing sustainable, competitive industry advantages. Mats Lundin, Swerea IVF CEO, said:
“Additive manufacturing is a fast growing area and we are pleased to be able to set up this production line together with a large industrial group, and in that way contribute to the industrialization of additive manufacturing in Sweden”
To achieve these goals, Swerea IVF has expanded its production capacity with the addition of an SLM Solutions SLM 280 2.0. The 280 2.0 features a print bed measuring 280 x 280 x 365mm, and the company’s patented multi-beam technology with two 700W lasers. It uses bi-directional powder coating to shorten production times for metal parts.
SLM Solutions Regional Sales Manager for Northern Europe, Jens Oldenburg said “We are contributing our specialist knowledge and experience in developing and implementing machines for metal-based manufacturing technology in this joint industry project,”
“We expect that this project will provide an excellent platform to develop a production line jointly, in that basic questions will be addressed and the expertise of those involved in the project combined.”
Increasing demand for SLM 3D printers
Last year, SLM Solutions received their largest ever order, worth up to €48 million, for 70 SLM 280 metal 3D printers to an unnamed customer in Asia. SLM has reported an 85.4 percent increase in 3D printer sales in 2017, as compared to 2016.
SLM Solutions’ Technical Director for North America, wrote a post for 3D Printing Industry, detailing his vision of the next five years in 3D printing.
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Featured image shows the SLM Solutions SLM 280 2.0. Image via SLM Solutions Group AG.
