HII orders second NXG 600E: L-PBF to qualify NiAlBr components for the US Navy

Nikon SLM Solutions, part of Nikon Advanced Manufacturing, has reported another order from US shipbuilding: the Newport News division of HII (Newport News Shipbuilding, NNS) is ordering a second NXG 600E. This expands HII’s capacity for metal 3D printing via Laser Powder Bed Fusion (L-PBF) and further aligns production toward applications within the US Navy ecosystem and the maritime supply chain.

The NXG 600E platform is designed for large-format L-PBF parts, where build volume, laser power, and process stability are decisive. In shipbuilding, this is particularly relevant for large, complex components that have traditionally been produced via casting or extensive machining. HII cites, among other goals, replacing legacy cast components for critical applications—addressing not only design freedom but also shorter supply chains and improved spare-parts availability, provided qualification and repeatability can be achieved.

A key technical focus of the collaboration is Nickel Aluminum Bronze (NiAlBr), a corrosion-resistant copper alloy used in maritime systems, among others. Nikon SLM Solutions and HII are expected to drive parameter development and process maturation for L-PBF production of such NiAlBr components. This typically includes optimizing laser parameters, scan strategies, powder handling, and preheating profiles, as well as validation via non-destructive testing methods and mechanical property data.

“This second NXG 600E order reflects HII’s leadership and long-term  commitment to advancing the maritime industrial base through additive manufacturing,” said Hamid Zarringhalam, CEO of Nikon Advanced  Manufacturing and Chairman of the Board, Nikon SLM Solutions. “Expanding critical materials capabilities such as Nickel Aluminum Bronze is a  foundational part of Nikon Advanced Manufacturing’s holistic approach, combining scalable platforms, material and process development, and  U.S.-based production and support. Together with HII, we are enabling  additive manufacturing to move from isolated applications to a repeatable, industrial capability that supports U.S. Navy shipbuilding at scale.”