GKN Aerospace acquires two NXG XII 600s from Nikon SLM Solutions

GKN Aerospace has ordered two state-of-the-art NXG XII 600 additive manufacturing machines from Nikon SLM Solutions – accelerating its industrialization of ground-breaking sustainable aero engine solutions. One of the systems will be used to print In718, and the other to print Ti64.

The NXG XII 600’s extensive printing area, and 12 lasers, are expected to further enable GKN Aerospace to produce large parts with high productivity. This partnership marks another significant step forward in revolutionizing the aerospace industry, offering more reliable and sustainable alternatives to traditional castings and forgings.

“Partnering with Nikon SLM Solutions is a key milestone in our journey to create better, more sustainable aerospace products,” said Martin Thordén, VP of Permanova, the newly formed business unit for material solutions within GKN Aerospace. “This collaboration provides us access to cutting-edge additive manufacturing capabilities necessary to propel us towards our net zero ambition.”

“Nikon SLM Solutions is honored to join forces with GKN Aerospace. Integrating our NXG XII 600 system symbolizes the future of aerospace, driven by leading-edge technology. As we step into this pivotal phase, our joint capabilities will undoubtedly set new benchmarks in aerospace manufacturing,” said Sam O’Leary, CEO of Nikon SLM Solutions.

GKN Aerospace is a world-leading aerospace supplier with 38 manufacturing facilities in 12 countries, catering to over 90% of global aircraft and engine manufacturers. It has been a leader in additive manufacturing technology for more than two decades – reflecting its dedication to sustainability and innovation in the aerospace industry.

In June, GKN Aerospace unveiled its Cell 3 laser-based wire DED pre-production cell – the largest such structure for the additive manufacturing of titanium parts – as part of its new Global Technology Center in Texas, USA. GKN Aerospace already has additively manufactured components flying on several different major platforms today, across the commercial, military, rotorcraft, business jet, and space markets.