Machine Comparison
SLM Solutions SLM 500 (Original) vs SLM Solutions NXG XII 600
SLM Solutions vs SLM Solutions · Metal Additive Manufacturing
Summary
The SLM Solutions SLM 500 (Original) and the SLM Solutions NXG XII 600 are both production metal additive machines, and SLM Solutions publishes few comparable figures for this pair: the table has one row, build volume.
The SLM Solutions SLM 500 (Original) builds within 500 x 280 x 365 mm. The SLM Solutions NXG XII 600 builds within 600 x 600 x 600 mm (23.6 x 23.6 x 23.6 in), the larger figure in every axis. The first is described for multi-part plates that keep four lasers working at once; the second for series production of large parts and full-plate runs on twelve lasers.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | SLM Solutions SLM 500 (Original) | SLM Solutions NXG XII 600 |
|---|---|---|
| Build Volume | 500 x 280 x 365 mm | 600 x 600 x 600 mm (23.6 x 23.6 x 23.6 in) |
Advantages
SLM Solutions SLM 500 (Original)
- Sized for parts that fit 500 x 280 x 365 mm, where the larger build volume would go unused
- Described for multi-part plates in aluminum, titanium, nickel, stainless steel and cobalt-chrome alloys
SLM Solutions NXG XII 600
- 600 x 600 x 600 mm (23.6 x 23.6 x 23.6 in) build volume against 500 x 280 x 365 mm
- Takes parts up to 600 mm (23.6 in) in any axis
- Described for full-plate production runs that keep twelve lasers melting
Verdict
Part size decides. Parts that exceed 500 x 280 x 365 mm need the SLM Solutions NXG XII 600, which builds up to 600 mm (23.6 in) in any axis and is described for full-plate series production. Parts that fit the smaller volume, built several to a plate, suit the SLM Solutions SLM 500 (Original). The table gives no laser power, layer or build-rate figures for this pair, so check the full data sheets before deciding.