SLM Solutions opened its new headquarters in Lübeck, Germany in August. Visitors from around the world were shown the latest SLM technology along with a wide range of selective laser melting samples from the aerospace, automotive, energy, medical and tooling sectors.
The new 25,000sqm facility provides space for around 500 employees, with SLM aiming to reach a production capacity of some 500 machines per year. The company invested approximately €25m into the new headquarters, confirming its intention to remain in Lübeck and to grow its already-strong market footing in metal 3D printing.
The new facilities allow SLM to develop improved processes and to streamline production workflow of its current product range: the SLM125, SLM280 2.0, SLM500 and the latest SLM800 system. Spaces have been allocated for customer consultation and training on dedicated machines, as the company shifts from being purely a machine manufacturer to a solutions provider. By forming partnerships with clients it will provide support and advise on uptake of an SLM laser systems into ‘real’ business operations.
Research & development are not being neglected, with a proposed 12-laser SLM Cube system on track to be launched in 2019. The development of the Cube will introduce the largest build chamber on the market of 600mm x 600mm, operating with a minimum of 12 lasers on the track. Additionally, the company is working on solutions to more easily integrate SLM systems into a customer’s current part production process to support a serial production environment.
Today SLM is technologically well positioned to remain one of the leading players in the metal additive manufacturing sector, offering high-performance systems, ancillary technologies, metal powders, training and expert service.
In Australia the installed base of SLM systems continues to expand with some five universities across the country offering local manufacturers the opportunity to test and trial new product solutions, supported with onsite advice. Local support of customers and business solutions advice to newcomers is provided by SLM-trained engineers and physicists from its Australian distributor Raymax Applications, located in Sydney. Regular visits by SLM’s Global Service Teams of engineers and technicians serves to keep strong relations with SLM in Lübeck, bringing this leading technology to Australian manufacturers.