Bosch Acquires Two SLM 500s

SLM Solutions Group AG has installed two SLM 500s at Robert Bosch GmbH Nuremberg (Bosch). Bosch will use its new systems to produce parts for its powertrain technology, including custom aluminium parts for hydrogen technology and electric drive productions at their 3D-MPC manufacturing and Processing Center in Nuremberg, Germany. The center is responsible for producing components and parts using additive manufacturing (AM) for prototype and serial applications.

The SLM 500s will increase BOSCH's output for aluminium parts in AlSi10Mg, allowing them higher capacity for bigger lot sizes. 

"A high OEE, a resilient machine design, and our good quality processes are the keys for AM-production," says Dr Christina Bluemel, manager of the NuP1 3DP Manufacturing and Processing Center.

"We are more than thrilled to partner with Bosch, a real technology powerhouse," says SLM Solutions' CEO Sam O'Leary. "They understand the revolutionary potential of additive manufacturing and trust the power and reliability of SLM Solutions systems. We are genuinely excited to support Bosch to accelerate the implementation of additive solutions across its entire portfolio of products and solutions."

Bosch's AM presence will also go beyond the automotive industry: using SLM technology with its 3DPSPACE Startup, which produces
parts for the space sector.

The first quad-laser metal system on the market, the SLM 500 can integrate lasers independently or in parallel to increase build rates. Designed for serial production, the exchangeable build cylinder enables short fire to fire times, reducing downtimes of the machine to a minimum. Machine operator and powder are separated through a closed-loop powder handling strategy, including an automated powder sieve and supply. 

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website.