SLM Solutions SLM 500

The SLM Solutions SLM 500 is a DMLS 3D printer from Nikon SLM Solutions with a 500 x 280 x 365 mm build volume.

Specifications

Technology and Laser System

The SLM 500 uses Selective Laser Melting (L-PBF) technology: powder metal layers of 20–90 µm are selectively melted by a 1070 nm fiber laser. The machine is configurable with 2 or 4 lasers up to 700 W each, enabling proportional productivity scaling as laser heads are added.

Build Volume

500 × 280 × 365 mm: large enough for full-length turbine blades and aerospace brackets in a single build.

Platform and Powder Handling

The patented twin-chamber powder management module allows powder loading and unloading without breaking the inert atmosphere of the build chamber: a critical advantage for reactive metals (Ti, Al) in serial production.

Calibration

1. Build Platform Leveling

Before each campaign, verify flatness with a dial indicator: deviation ≤ 0.05 mm. On multi-laser systems, measure at the corners of each laser zone; misalignment causes visible stitch lines on parts.

2. Laser Power and Focus Spot Calibration

Measure actual power of each laser with a calibrated wattmeter (±2% tolerance).

Common defects

Porosity

Gas porosity originates from dissolved gas in the powder or moisture: dry powder at 80–120°C before use. Lack-of-fusion porosity is caused by insufficient volumetric energy density: increase power or reduce scan speed.

Hot and Cold Cracking

Hot cracking is characteristic of high-alloy superalloys (Inconel 738, CM247LC): apply platform preheating and optimize scan strategy.

What it is used for

Suitable Applications

The SLM 500 excels at aerospace structural parts (turbine blades, satellite frames), personalized medical implants (hip prostheses, spinal cages), heat exchangers and fuel manifolds with conformal channels, and precision tooling with integrated cooling. The 500 mm X-axis is a decisive differentiator for parts exceeding the capacity of smaller systems.