SLM Solutions Metal Additive Manufacturing

SLM Solutions SLM 280

Est. $150,000-$400,000 (used; discontinued) Updated 2026-08-10

Key Specifications

build volume

280 x 280 x 365 mm

laser

1 x 400W or 700W

build rate

20-35 cm³/hr

layer thickness

20-75 µm

materials

AlSi10Mg, Ti6Al4V, IN718, 316L, CoCr, H13

Overview

The original SLM 280 established SLM Solutions in metal AM. 280 x 280 x 365 mm, single 400W or 700W laser. One of the most widely adopted mid-size systems.

Open architecture for parameter development. Build rate ~20-35 cm³/hr. No longer in production.

Strong used market. Materials: AlSi10Mg, Ti6Al4V, IN718, 316L, CoCr, H13.

Used: $150K-$400K.

Full Specifications

Parameter	Value
Build Volume	280 x 280 x 365 mm
Laser	1 x 400W or 700W
Build Rate	20-35 cm³/hr
Layer Thickness	20-75 µm
Materials	AlSi10Mg, Ti6Al4V, IN718, 316L, CoCr, H13

Specifications compiled from manufacturer literature and industry references. Not independently verified against a published spec sheet — confirm with the manufacturer or an authorised dealer before making a purchasing decision.

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

Global installed base
Open architecture
280mm generous for class
Strong used market
Proven across many apps
Good entry point

Limitations

Discontinued
Single laser slow
Older gas flow
Post-processing
Decreasing support
No modern monitoring

Best For

Research/universities Budget metal AM Prototyping Parameter development Low-volume service Training

Frequently Asked Questions

01 New?

No — the SLM 280 has been superseded by the 280 2.0, so this is a used-market purchase. Value turns on laser configuration (400 W or 700 W), laser and machine hours, filter and optics condition, and whether powder handling, a sieving station and validated parameter sets for your alloy come with it. Confirm remaining SLM support and parameter availability before committing.

02 vs 2.0?

2.0: better optics, gas, UI.

03 Support?

Ongoing but may decrease.

04 Rate?

20-35 cm³/hr.

05 Good starter?

Best used option for entering metal AM.