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February highlights how metal additive manufacturing continues to move from capability to scale. Across naval shipbuilding, European investment, automotive serial production, and defense applications, the focus this month is clear: strengthening industrial readiness while expanding what’s possible in production environments. Here’s what’s shaping February Focus.
HII’s Newport News Shipbuilding division has placed a second order for a Nikon SLM Solutions NXG 600E, further strengthening its advanced manufacturing capabilities in support of U.S. Navy shipbuilding and the Maritime Industrial Base. Building on a previously announced acquisition, this additional investment reinforces the role of large-format laser powder bed fusion in producing large, complex components and replacing legacy castings for critical naval applications. Working closely with HII, we will support parameter development and process maturation for Nickel Aluminum Bronze (NiAlBr), expanding qualified material capability within U.S. Navy supply chains.
Our latest white paper, “Additive Manufacturing of Suppressors — From Design Freedom to Scalable Production,” is now available for download. The paper explores how laser powder bed fusion enables monolithic, performance-optimized suppressor designs that eliminate assembly complexity while supporting serial production. From internal gas-flow optimization and material durability to digital process control and scalable manufacturing strategies, it outlines how metal additive manufacturing is already delivering production-ready performance in regulated and defense-driven environments.
Our Engineering Hub in Reggio Emilia has been recognized by fDi Intelligence at the Investment Impact Awards 2026 as one of Europe’s most impactful operational investment projects. The distinction reflects measurable impact on the ground, from advancing industrial additive manufacturing innovation to creating high-value engineering roles and collaborating closely with regional universities and manufacturing partners. It demonstrates how global technology leadership and strong local ecosystems can grow together to drive sustainable industrial progress.
We recently unveiled the latest evolution of our SLM®500 platform, and the video is now live. As the industry’s first quad-laser system, the SLM®500 remains a benchmark for medium to large-sized production applications, combining speed, flexibility, and a 280 × 500 × 365 mm³ build envelope. With access to our full parameter portfolio and a removable build cylinder enabling job changeovers in under one hour, the platform continues to support industrial scalability across automotive, aviation, energy, and beyond.
Together with Bosch Additive Solutions, we continue to demonstrate how industrial metal additive manufacturing is moving from promise to serial reality. The NXG XII 600 enables new levels of throughput, faster iteration cycles, and greater design freedom, supporting highly integrated components and lightweight structures in real production environments. This collaboration highlights how productivity, flexibility, and competitiveness can coexist at scale. More videos in this series will follow, offering further insight into industrial AM in action.
Join us at AMUG 2026, taking place March 15–19 at the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada. Visit us at Booth 403 to explore our latest metal additive manufacturing innovations and discuss how our systems, materials, and software integrations support production efficiency, cost reduction, and performance improvement. Schedule a one-on-one meeting with our team to address your application requirements and identify practical next steps for scaling your additive manufacturing operations.
Stay ahead of the curve with Addictive Additive, Nikon SLM Solutions’ dedicated blog for exclusive business cases, expert insights, and the latest trends in additive manufacturing. Whether you’re exploring advanced aerospace applications, cutting-edge automotive innovations, or new material developments, our blog has you covered.
Advancing Suppressor Performance Through Metal Additive Manufacturing
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A Guide to High-Performance Materials in Suppressor Manufacturing
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Accelerating Innovation: How Nikon SLM Solutions Advances Metal AM Prototyping
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ExxonMobil
Driving High-Performance Racing Components Into the Future
Fundamental Motorsports
Driving High-Performance Racing Components Into the Future
Karman Space Programme
Pushing the Boundaries of Reusable Rocket Engines
Airbus
Transforming Fuel System Components With Additive Manufacturing
The Service Hub is dedicated to keeping your metal AM systems running at peak performance. From maintenance and repairs to expert technical support, we provide the reliable services you need to ensure consistent, high-quality production.
Powder Quality Management
Use only high-quality, certified metal powders, and implement sieving and monitoring practices to prevent contamination or particle degradation over time.
Operator Training
Ensure operators are trained not only in machine operation but also in best practices for part setup, powder handling, and safety procedures.
Regular Inspections
Inspect recoater blades, build plates, and optics frequently for wear or damage, and address small issues immediately before they escalate into costly downtime.
Curious about how metal additive manufacturing (AM) is reshaping industries?
Our collection of on-demand webinars gives you access to the latest innovations and trends in this transformative technology. From aerospace to energy, metal AM is changing the way we manufacture. Explore topics such as:
Ready to discover how metal AM can push your business forward? Watch our on-demand webinars and get inspired.
NI-BASED ALLOYS
Nickel-based alloys provide exceptional strength, heat resistance, and corrosion performance, making them essential for demanding applications in aerospace, energy, and industrial sectors where extreme temperatures and harsh environments require reliable, high-performing materials.
CU-BASED ALLOYS
Copper-based alloys offer outstanding thermal and electrical conductivity along with strong mechanical performance, making them essential for applications in tooling, electronics, and advanced energy systems where high strength and efficient heat or power transfer are critical.
TK Engineering and Nikon SLM Solutions are pioneering copper alloy AM for induction heating coils. Our SLM®280 delivers superior quality, efficiency, and sustainability, supporting carbon neutrality goals.
Download this case study to learn more about GRCop-42, a copper alloy essential for rocket engine components that require high thermal conductivity and strength.
At Nikon SLM Solutions, we have permanently open positions to join our team of experts worldwide. Work alongside the most talented people that have the freedom to explore, push the limits, and collaborate closely with the most incredible clients. Experience what it’s like to be part of something that changes manufacturing forever – with us.
NXG 600E 
NXG XII 600 
SLM®500 
SLM®280 PS 
SLM®280 2.0 
