The ILA Berlin Air Show is the most important aerospace trade fair in continental Europe, and is one of the main presentation platforms for new innovations from all sectors of the global aerospace industry. From April 25 to 29, ILA 2018 will showcase cutting-edge aircraft and smart high-tech products and technologies, alongside a diverse program of events for industry specialists and visitors alike.

At the Berlin ExpoCenter Airport, SLM Solutions Group AG will present its SLM® additive manufacturing technology to the entire aerospace industry. With its SLM®280 2.0 and SLM®500 machines, SLM Solutions will showcase the future of metal-based additive manufacturing at stand 226 in hall 2. The machines cover the entire process chain (closed loop) of additive manufacturing, from data generation to the melting process and all the way to powder recovery and recycling. Up to four powerful 700-W lasers expose the build field via a 3D scan optic during the build process. These high-performance, high-productivity machines are perfect for the series production of complex components, and are designed for use in manufacturing environments.

SLM Solutions supports manufacturers, suppliers and MRO companies in the aerospace industry around the world, helping them to improve their production processes with SLM® additive manufacturing technology. “We have been a pioneer and technology leader in additive manufacturing for many years, and constantly invest in research and development for machines and materials. Our systems help companies make their production more efficient and give them a greater degree of freedom in product development,” explains Stefan Ritt, VP Head of Global Marketing and Communications at SLM Solutions Group AG.

In aerospace research and development, SLM Solutions cooperates closely with leading institutes and universities with the aim of responding even more precisely to the needs of the industry. The focus is on both optimizing machinery and creating new materials that meet tougher requirements, reduce energy consumption and maximize productivity. Machines with four fiber lasers, for example, can increase the build rate by up to 90% compared to twin-laser configurations.