Swedish company LaserTool, known for its expertise in laser hardening, is expanding its manufacturing portfolio to include additive production of metal components. With the acquisition of an SLM500 system from Nikon SLM Solutions, the company aims to produce large-format parts made from high-strength steel through additive manufacturing. The move represents a strategic step to broaden its production capabilities and strengthen its position in the Scandinavian market.
With over 20 years of experience in laser-based materials processing, LaserTool intends to apply this knowledge specifically to the field of additive manufacturing. The company plans to use high-strength steel alloys from Swedish producer SSAB to manufacture components for tooling, spare parts, prototypes, and functional structural elements. To support the integration of the new system, LaserTool is expanding its production area by 400 square meters to accommodate the required infrastructure.
“With this investment, LaserTool will meet growing market demand and strengthen our competitive edge as a comprehensive manufacturing partner,” said Martin Nilsson, CEO of LaserTool. “Additive manufacturing opens new opportunities, enabling us to create components that were previously impossible with conventional methods, significantly reducing material waste, and improving our environmental footprint.”
The SLM500 printer is designed for production-oriented applications and supports the fabrication of complex metal structures with high process reliability and repeatability.
Sustainability is also a key focus: all additive manufacturing at LaserTool will be powered by renewable energy. The installation of the new system is scheduled for the second quarter of 2025.
Sam O’Leary, CEO of Nikon SLM Solutions, added: “We’re proud to support LaserTool’s ambitious expansion into additive manufacturing. Our collaboration marks an important milestone in increasing the adoption of additive manufacturing technologies in the Nordic region. LaserTool’s expertise combined with our advanced SLM500 system will drive innovation and set new standards for manufacturing high-strength steel components.”
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