Happy New Year from all of us at Nikon SLM Solutions! As we kick off 2025, we’re excited to share groundbreaking updates that showcase our leadership in additive manufacturing. From the grand opening of our state-of-the-art Technology Center in Long Beach, CA, to advancements in aerospace and defense, this Jet-Powered January is setting the tone for a year of innovation and progress. Let’s make 2025 a transformative year together!

GRAND OPENING:

NIKON TECHNOLOGY CENTER

Yesterday, we proudly opened the doors to the Nikon Advanced Manufacturing Technology Center in Long Beach, CA!

This 90,000-square-foot facility is a hub of innovation, uniting Nikon SLM Solutions, Nikon AM Synergy, and Nikon technologies to support industries like aerospace, defense, and aviation. The center combines cutting-edge additive manufacturing solutions, advanced R&D, and Nikon’s legacy of precision and excellence.

We were honored to celebrate this milestone with distinguished guests and speakers, including:

• Admiral Mike Mullen (Ret., USN), Nikon Advanced Manufacturing Strategic Advisor
• Rex Richardson, Mayor of Long Beach
• Kenko Sone, Consul-General of Japan
• Maria Onorato, GO-Biz Foreign Direct Investment Program Manager
• Jack Cunningham, Office of Congressman Robert Garcia

Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, attendees toured the facility to see our advanced capabilities firsthand. This new center marks a bold step in Nikon’s mission to redefine high-precision manufacturing and support critical industries.

The future of manufacturing starts now.

FIRST U.S.-BUILT NXG INSTALLED

The first NXG XII 600, built at Nikon SLM Solutions’ Greenville, SC facility, is now installed at the new Technology Center in Long Beach, CA!

This installation reflects our commitment to reducing lead times, enhancing customer support, and complying with key regulations like the Buy American Act (BAA) and DFARS for Department of Defense-related sales. With localized production, we’re ensuring faster and more efficient manufacturing for U.S. industries.

Learn more here.

COLLINS AEROSPACE RAISES THE BAR

Collins Aerospace is revolutionizing aircraft engine manufacturing at their West Des Moines facility with two NXG XII 600 systems from Nikon SLM Solutions. By consolidating their supply chain and integrating postprocessing steps, they’ve achieved unmatched speed, scalability, and efficiency.

This shift highlights the power of Nikon SLM’s advanced LPBF technology to deliver critical aerospace components faster, cheaper, and more precisely.

Watch the full Additive Manufacturing Media video here.

DTI SHOWCASES AM DESIGN ADVANTAGES

The Danish Technological Institute (DTI) continues to demonstrate the power of additive manufacturing. In a recent comparison, they showcased how a 3D-printed suppressor outperformed its conventionally manufactured counterpart by being:

• Smaller and lighter
• Made in one seamless piece
• Equally effective in performance

This case underscores how AM delivers smarter, more efficient solutions for complex designs.

Read more about the case here. 

REVOLUTIONIZING MARINE MANUFACTURING

ST Engineering (STE), a global leader in technology, defense, and engineering, has set a new standard in marine manufacturing. By adopting cutting-edge additive manufacturing (AM) technology from Nikon SLM Solutions, STE transformed the production of critical marine components like the aluminum impeller. This case study reveals how advanced AM solutions addressed traditional manufacturing challenges, reduced lead times, and enhanced performance in demanding environments.

Key Benefits:

• Enhanced Corrosion Resistance: The use of Aheadd® CP1 improved the durability and lifespan of components in harsh marine environments.
• Optimized Design: Free Float technology enabled geometry refinements, reducing the need for support structures and boosting efficiency.
• Significantly Reduced Lead Times: On-demand digital manufacturing cut production times by over 90%, ensuring rapid delivery of critical parts.

Download the full case study to learn how additive manufacturing can revolutionize your production processes.

INNOVATION GALLERY

Discover how Nikon SLM Solutions is transforming additive manufacturing into an art form. With the Online Innovation Gallery, we invite you to explore the systems, success stories, and applications that are shaping the future of precision manufacturing. From compact power to large-scale industrial mastery, our machines bring visions to life—layer by layer, masterpiece by masterpiece.

WHERE TECHNOLOGY MEETS ART

Much like the delicate layering of gold leaf in a masterpiece, the SLM®280 is designed for precision and complexity.

With an innovative spirit and bold approach, the SLM®500 excels at handling large-scale production with ease.

The NXG XII 600 operates with both precision and rhythm, producing flawless parts in large quantities with extraordinary speed.

With bold, sweeping precision, the NXG 600E brings fluidity and innovation to large-scale production.

MEET OUR INDUSTRY EXPERTS

Wondering How Metal AM Can Transform Your Business? Meet Our Industry Experts.

ANDREW CUNNINGHAM

Senior Application Engineer

Upcoming Speaking Engagement:

Additive Manufacturing Strategies 2025

New York | February 4th–6th

Meet Andrew Cunningham: Driving Additive Manufacturing Excellence in Automotive and Motorsports

Andrew Cunningham is a Senior Application Engineer at Nikon SLM Solutions, where he leads global technical development for the automotive and motorsports industries. In this role, Andrew drives innovation in additive manufacturing (AM) by enabling cutting-edge solutions for high-performance applications.

Previously, Andrew spearheaded General Motors‘ motorsports additive manufacturing initiative, delivering over 120 race-proven applications that pushed the boundaries of performance and reliability on the track.

Before joining GM, Andrew rotated through several roles at Ford Performance, where he contributed to the development of iconic vehicles like the Mustang GT500, F-150 Raptor, and NASCAR Cup Mustang.

Andrew holds an M.Eng. in Advanced Manufacturing and Design from MIT and a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo.

PICTURE PERFECT SYSTEMS

Experience unparalleled reliability with our redesigned SLM®280, SLM®280 Production Series, and SLM®500 systems.

Featuring advanced technology and the innovative Picture Perfect Pro Plan, these systems deliver maximum uptime and optimal performance.

Learn more about our Picture Perfect systems.

SLM® 500

Maximize productivity and performance with the SLM®500. Engineered for serial production, this versatile system offers unparalleled speed, precision, and scalability.

Discover the SLM® 500

SLM® 280 PS

Engineered for precision and efficiency, this powerhouse metal 3D printing system is ideal for industries requiring high-quality metal components at scale.

Discover the SLM® 280 PS

SLM® 280 2.0

From prototyping to serial production, the SLM®280 2.0 offers tailored solutions for industries seeking to optimize production processes and drive innovation.

Discover the SLM® 280 2.0

CUSTOMER SUCCESS STORIES

AIRBUS

Discover how Airbus is revolutionizing aviation with additive manufacturing (AM). A case study on the A330 Fuel Air Separator showcases breakthroughs in efficiency, sustainability, and performance through collaboration with Nikon, SLM Solutions, and Hexagon. Aviation’s future starts here!

EMERSON

Fisher Controls, an Emerson division, is transforming the Fisher™ Cavitrol Hex™ trim device with additive manufacturing. Partnering with Nikon SLM Solutions, they’ve optimized performance, enhanced anti-cavitation, and cut lead times—setting a new benchmark for efficiency and quality.

BROSE

Leveraging the SLM®500 machine, Brose has dramatically accelerated their prototyping processes, significantly reducing lead times and costs without compromising on the exceptional quality that their customers have come to expect.

WABTEC

Wabtec’s adoption of the SLM®500 has revolutionized pantograph auto drop device production. The cutting-edge technology has optimized processes, reduced costs, and improved quality.

EVENTS

Join us at the Military Additive Manufacturing Summit in Tampa, Florida, from February 11-12. Visit us at Booth #601 to discover the latest advancements in metal additive manufacturing. 

What to Expect:

• Mission-Ready Solutions: Discuss your manufacturing challenges with our team of experts specializing in military applications.
• Cutting-Edge Technology: Explore the latest advancements in metal additive manufacturing designed for defense.
• Strategic Connections: Network with military leaders, industry experts, and defense professionals shaping the future of AM.

Schedule a one-on-one meeting to discuss your unique requirements.

Join us at the AFA Warfare Symposium in Aurora, Colorado, from March 3 – 5. Visit us at Booth #129 discover how metal additive manufacturing can enhance your defense capabilities. 

What to Expect:

• Tailored Defense Solutions: Learn how our tailored AM solutions streamline everything from prototyping to full-scale production, addressing your unique challenges.
• Real-World Defense Applications: Dive into real-world case studies showcasing the impact of metal AM on defense manufacturing and mission-critical applications.
• The Future of Defense Manufacturing: Gain insights into the future trends and opportunities in defense manufacturing, powered by metal AM.

Schedule a personalized consultation to discuss your specific needs.

ON-DEMAND WEBINARS

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.

MATERIALS MATTER

Cu-BASED ALLOYS

Copper-based alloys are ideal for components requiring high strength, excellent corrosion resistance, and thermal stability, making them versatile for various industries and applications.

Discover SLM® CU-Based Alloys

Ti-BASED ALLOYS

Due to its high strength, low density, and good corrosion resistance, Titanium is suited for production parts in the aerospace and automotive industries as well as in biomedical applications.

Discover SLM® Ti-Based Alloys

MATERIAL CASE STUDIES

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.