Nikon SLM Solutions and CEA launch MANTRA hub for metal AM in nuclear
The French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA) is looking to accelerate adoption of large format metal 3D printed components
Nikon SLM Solutions and the French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA) have established a collaborative innovation hub, named “MANTRA,” to advance large‑format metal additive manufacturing (AM) for nuclear‑energy applications.
The partnership brings together Nikon SLM’s industrial‑scale metal AM systems and CEA’s 80‑year research heritage in nuclear and low‑carbon energy technologies. CEA states it will leverage its materials, simulation and qualification expertise, while Nikon SLM will contribute its large‑format laser powder‑bed fusion (L‑PBF) platforms and process development capabilities.
MANTRA is designed to provide a structured framework that covers design, simulation, material data generation, and real-world testing under nuclear-relevant conditions. The initiative explicitly targets the development of tailored AM process parameters for nuclear‑grade materials, exploration of complex geometries beyond traditional manufacturing limits, and demonstration of material qualification for large‑sized components.
With this collaboration, Nikon SLM and CEA aim to accelerate the industrialisation of metal AM for the nuclear industry, and position the technology for broader use in other high‑reliability domains such as aerospace or defence. Nikon SLM CEO Sam O’Leary commented: “Partnering with CEA… gives us a strong foundation to help shape the future of energy infrastructure with metal AM at the core.”
CEA’s programme manager, Stéphanie Riché, stated the collaboration gives them “access to world‑leading technology… and the ability to co‑develop solutions that align with the rigorous standards of our sector and will benefit industrial actors in Europe and beyond.”
The hub is set to be formally introduced at the World Nuclear Exhibition (WNE) in Paris in November.
Metal additive manufacturing is increasingly seen as viable for demanding sectors that require certified components, complex geometries and optimized materials performance. VoxelMatters Research‘s data shows that AM is starting to be adopted for nuclear components, where traditional manufacturing methods are reaching limitations in cost or lead time.
For Nikon SLM, the partnership aligns with its trajectory following its acquisition by Nikon Corporation (which brought SLM Solutions’ L‑PBF platform under Nikon’s umbrella) and its growing focus on large‑scale manufacturing for energy, aerospace and defence. For CEA, the initiative provides a pathway to reduce manufacturing bottlenecks in nuclear infrastructure, enhance the lifecycle performance of critical components, and integrate emerging manufacturing technologies into the sector’s supply chain.
