The move is part of the University’s Institute for Applied Engineering Research’s (IAER) expanding additive manufacturing program.

Toledo, OH, USA. November 24th, 2021. Additive Manufacturing pioneer SLM Solutions and The University of Toledo (UToledo) jointly announce the university’s acquisition of an SLM® 280 700W twin laser machine for its Institute for Applied Engineering Research (IAER). This platform has been chosen to fit the advanced research requirements of UToledo, including next generation high temperature lightweight alloy development, and will help significantly expand its laser powder bed fusion technology resources and strengthen the infrastructure of its advanced manufacturing program.

• SLM Solutions will become a strategic partner and industry member of the Advanced Manufacturing department at The University of Toledo IAER.
• The partnership will span the co-development of advanced materials and the co-hosting of events showcasing laser powder bed fusion technology.
• SLM Solutions and University of Toledo will establish a scholarship award to support graduate student research on SLM Solutions machinery.

The University of Toledo and SLM Solutions also intend to enter into a strategic Research and Development partnership for the development of materials and processes for various alloys, including smart alloys, advanced lightweight alloys, and those that are difficult to print for high temperature performances. As an industry member of the Advanced Manufacturing department at The University of Toledo IAER, SLM Solutions will co-host seminars, webinars, and showcases. As a strategic partner, UToledo will undertake characterization and testing of SLM Solutions’ materials, as well as host and provide technological access to SLM Solutions’ referred customers.

The University of Toledo is developing a state-of-the-art infrastructure for advanced manufacturing technologies at the Institute for Applied Engineering Research. Their areas of expertise include metal processing, alloy design, and development, materials testing and characterization, and additive manufacturing.

On why UToledo sought out SLM Solutions as their strategic partner, Dr. Behrang Poorganji, Research Professor and the Advanced Manufacturing Director of the Institute of Applied Engineering Research, said: “This ecosystem success that we are putting together depends on close partnership with industry leaders such as SLM Solutions. Our partnership with SLM Solutions will enable us to engage in AM research programs, workforce development, and education of next generation engineers and researchers more effectively.” He continues: “Through this partnership, we are developing advanced materials including smart alloys, next generation ultra-high temperature alloys, and lightweight materials to serve defense, aerospace, and energy sector industries. The University of Toledo has a strategic vision in filling the current gap in workforce development and training and serving local and national industries. We envision to use this partnership to train and educate workforce needs for the future of advanced manufacturing.”

A scholarship for $30,000 will also be established by SLM Solutions and The University of Toledo to provide one graduate student with training and research development on SLM Solutions technology. SLM Solutions CEO Sam O’Leary states: “It’s a pleasure to join forces with The University of Toledo in order to outfit the next generation of engineers and researchers with leading tools and resources. On top of this, it’s an important step in assuring future innovations in additive manufacturing.”

About University of Toledo Institute for Applied Engineering Research

At The University of Toledo, students and staff are driven to think smarter, tackle challenges and improve lives. They are renowned for research in the areas of astronomy and astrophysics; solar energy, water quality and sustainable technologies; and cell architecture and dynamics. The Institute for Applied Engineering Research provides a gateway to access the world-class research facility at The University of Toledo. The team of directors is well versed in managing a wide range of research projects from jet engines to medical devices, and the area of research spans from additive manufacturing across biomaterials to welding and turbomachinery.