Lancashire-based Additive Manufacturing Solutions Ltd (AMS) has expanded its in-house capabilities with the acquisition of Nikon SLM Solutions’ SLM®280 2.0 system. This strategic move not only bolsters AMS’s capacity for producing advanced materials and novel alloys but also amplifies its standing as a service provider with exceptional toolpath control capabilities, thanks to its partnership and expertise with Dyndrite software. AMS is developing and creating metal powders for AM from recycled parts. This high-value circular economy approach to material development alongside the SLM®280 2.0 system provides a step change in AM sustainability.

Nikon SLM Solutions’s UK partner, Gosport-based Kingsbury, has supplied and installed the 3-D printer, bolstering its commitment to delivering and supporting metal additive adoption in the UK. The new equipment and the AMS team will be further supported by Additure, a division of the Kingsbury group dedicated to accelerating the adoption of metal AM technologies.

Richard Kingsbury said: “With Additure we have the perfect mechanism to ably assist you on your metal AM journey. Combining that with the pedigree of machine tools service and support from Kingsbury means that we can provide end-to-end capability to our customers. We are thrilled to be working with AMS at this stage of their journey and we look forward to more exciting announcements in the near future. “

AMS CEO Robert Higham said: “With the integration of the SLM®280 2.0 into our operations, we are poised to revolutionise the material and process capabilities within the additive manufacturing (AM) industry. This advancement is coupled with our pioneering Additive Manufacturing Academy, set to deliver hands-on experience and ground-breaking training in AM.”

Rapid material development
AMS, a frontrunner in sustainable and innovative manufacturing solutions, will use the SLM®280 2.0 to drive rapid material development capabilities and grow its presence further in the UK motorsport, defence, aerospace and space markets.

Charlie Grace, Nikon SLM Solutions CCO, said: “AMS’s acquisition of the SLM®280 2.0 machine marks a significant milestone in the AM landscape. The company’s foresight to integrate Dyndrite’s cutting-edge toolpath technology exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to innovation and precision in production.

“At Nikon SLM Solutions, we take pride in empowering our partners like AMS, which is not only advancing its capabilities but also shaping the future of sustainable and efficient manufacturing. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to excellence and our continuous endeavour to push the boundaries of what is possible in AM.”

Incorporating Dyndrite’s powerful toolpath control software, AMS is equipped to offer enhanced toolpath control and optimisation capabilities as part of their service offerings. Dyndrite's unique GPU accelerated geometry engine, APIs and application allows AMS to maximise additive manufacturing AM capabilities, providing a competitive edge over traditional toolpathing solutions with its speed, flexibility and precision.

Mr Higham concluded: “The Dyndrite toolpath control unleashes unparalleled levels of control and efficiency in AM processes. Our work with Dyndrite’s technology underpins our position as material and process development leaders, providing scalable and dynamic AM solutions to meet the ever-evolving demands of the industry.”