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As the year draws to a close, December brings clarity on what truly moved metal additive manufacturing forward in 2025. This month’s stories span major defense investments, newly released production software, real-world case studies, and leadership perspective — alongside our first long-format technical deep dive. Together, they reflect a year defined not by hype, but by proven progress, industrial readiness, and momentum built to carry into what’s next.
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NXG 600E ADVANCES U.S. NAVY PRODUCTION
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HII’s Newport News Shipbuilding — the largest military shipbuilder in the United States — has placed an order for its first NXG 600E, becoming the first U.S. shipyard to install this platform. The investment marks a major step in deploying large-format metal AM for critical U.S. Navy programs, including aircraft carriers and submarines. By accelerating qualification, improving readiness, and expanding domestic production of mission-critical components, this milestone reinforces Nikon AM’s role in strengthening a resilient, future-ready defense manufacturing ecosystem.
Read the full press release
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SLM.PREP NOW AVAILABLE WORLDWIDE
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After years of development and extensive early-access feedback, SLM.Prep is now officially available to all Nikon SLM Solutions machine owners. The software unifies advanced build setup into a single workflow, delivering accurate build-time simulation, detailed laser-spot modeling, and true slice-level visibility. For multi-laser platforms like the NXG series, SLM.Prep enables faster qualification, deeper process understanding, and greater confidence — all shaped by real production use and validated by industry leaders.
Read the full announcement
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CASE STUDY: PERFORMANCE IN PRACTICE
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Our latest case study highlights how Nikon SLM Solutions technology delivers measurable value in demanding production environments. From advanced design and process validation to repeatable manufacturing outcomes, the project demonstrates how metal AM transitions from capability to consistency. It’s a clear example of scalable additive manufacturing supporting real industrial requirements — where performance, reliability, and efficiency matter most.
Read the case study
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A FIRST LONG-FORMAT TECHNICAL DEEP DIVE
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This month marks a milestone in how we share technical insight. For the first time, we’ve released a long-format expert discussion, paired with an in-depth blog article, exploring what truly drives productivity in metal additive manufacturing. The conversation goes beyond surface-level trends to examine optics, process stability, and system-level design — offering engineers and decision-makers a deeper, more nuanced perspective on how industrial AM performance is achieved and sustained.
Watch the discussion
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LEADERSHIP PERSPECTIVE:
AM IS ALREADY INDUSTRIAL
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In a recent interview with TCT Magazine, Nikon SLM Solutions CEO Sam O’Leary explains why industrial metal AM is far more mature — and far less complicated — than many believe. Drawing on real customer examples and scalable multi-laser production, the discussion reinforces a simple truth: additive manufacturing is no longer emerging. It’s proven, industrial, and delivering value today.
Read the interview
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As we close out 2025, we want to thank our customers, partners, and global Nikon SLM Solutions team for their trust, collaboration, and shared ambition throughout the year. This year was defined by experience, partnership, and proven results — and we’re grateful to everyone who helped make that progress possible. We look forward to continuing the journey together in the year ahead.
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EXPLORE ADDICTIVE ADDITIVE: YOUR AM KNOWLEDGE HUB
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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.
Read the latest articles
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Traditional vs. Metal Additive Manufacturing: Finding the Right Path Forward
Read Article
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Additive Manufacturing + AI: Pioneering a Resilient and Sustainable European Industry
Read Article
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Fundamental Motorsports Driving High-Performance Racing Components Into the Future
Download Case Study
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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.
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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:
- Innovative Applications: See how cutting-edge AM technology is driving breakthroughs in product development.
- Industry Trends: Stay informed on the most recent advancements shaping the future of metal AM.
- Technical Insights: Dive deep into the technical aspects, from design optimization to material choices and processes.
Ready to discover how metal AM can push your business forward? Watch our on-demand webinars and get inspired.
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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.
Discover SLM® Ni-Based Alloys
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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.
Discover SLM® Cu-Based Alloys
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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.
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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.
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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.
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