SLM Solutions SLM 125
Key Specifications
build volume
laser type
laser power
number of lasers
focus diameter
layer thickness
Overview
The SLM Solutions SLM 125 is an entry-level Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) system with a 125 x 125 x 75 mm build volume, designed as a compact research, development, and small-batch production platform. As the smallest system in the SLM Solutions lineup, it provides a low-cost entry point to the company's selective laser melting (SLM) process — a full melt technology that achieves near-100% density parts compared to the sintering-based approaches of some competitors. The SLM 125 is the machine of choice for universities, research institutions, material developers, and companies evaluating LPBF before committing to a larger production platform.
The SLM 125 uses a single 400 W fiber laser with a focus spot diameter of approximately 70-80 microns. This relatively small spot combined with SLM's bidirectional scanning strategy enables the system to achieve fine feature resolution and good surface quality on small, intricate components. Layer thicknesses range from 20 to 75 microns depending on material and application. The system uses an inert argon atmosphere for most materials, with nitrogen available for certain stainless steel and titanium applications. Bidirectional scanning with a 67° rotation between layers is a signature SLM Solutions parameter strategy that minimizes residual stress and anisotropy in finished parts.
For a research and development platform, the SLM 125 provides meaningful access to the full SLM Solutions material library: titanium (Ti6Al4V, Ti6Al4V ELI), nickel superalloys (IN718, IN625), aluminum (AlSi10Mg, AlSi12), cobalt chrome (CoCrW), stainless steels (316L, 17-4PH), and various tool steels and reactive metals. The machine uses the same SLM Build Processor software as larger SLM platforms, and parameters developed on the SLM 125 can be scaled to the SLM 280 or SLM 500 for production, making it a genuine development tool rather than a toy.
The compact footprint — approximately 1.1 x 0.9 meters — allows installation in standard laboratory environments without special foundation or reinforcement requirements. Power requirements are modest at single-phase capability, and the argon consumption is proportionally lower than larger systems. New SLM 125 systems are priced between $350,000 and $500,000, positioning them as accessible entry-level industrial LPBF for serious R&D applications.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Build Volume | 125 x 125 x 75 mm (4.9 x 4.9 x 3.0 in) |
| Laser Type | Fiber laser |
| Laser Power | 400 W |
| Number Of Lasers | 1 |
| Focus Diameter | ~70 - 80 µm |
| Layer Thickness | 20 - 75 µm (material dependent) |
| Scan Speed | Up to 10.0 m/s |
| Technology | Selective Laser Melting (LPBF) |
| Scanning Strategy | Bidirectional with 67° rotation between layers |
| Materials | Titanium, Inconel, Aluminum, Cobalt Chrome, Stainless Steel, Tool Steels |
| Inert Gas | Argon (primary), Nitrogen (select materials) |
| Machine Dimensions | ~1,100 x 900 x 2,100 mm |
| Software | SLM Build Processor |
| CNC Control | SLM Solutions proprietary |
Specifications sourced from nikon-slm-solutions.com — verified 2026-03-28
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- Compact 125 x 125 x 75 mm build volume and small footprint enable installation in standard lab environments without special structural requirements
- Full SLM process (complete melt, not sintering) achieves near-100% density parts and consistent mechanical properties at the entry level
- Parameters developed on the SLM 125 are transferable to larger SLM 280 and SLM 500 platforms for scalable production deployment
- Access to the full SLM Solutions qualified material library including titanium, Inconel, and cobalt chrome at the lowest entry price in the product line
Limitations
- 125 x 125 x 75 mm build volume is extremely limited — the Z-height of 75 mm is a particular constraint for taller parts
- Single-laser 400 W system produces limited throughput; unsuitable for anything beyond R&D and small-batch production
- Higher per-part cost compared to larger systems due to fixed overhead amortized over fewer parts per build
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
Both are entry-level metal LPBF systems for small parts. The SLM 125 uses a full melt selective laser melting (SLM) process while the EOS M 100 uses Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS). SLM Solutions claims higher density parts from the full melt approach. The EOS M 100 has a round 100 mm diameter build area and is more focused on dental and jewelry; the SLM 125 has a 125 x 125 mm square build plate better suited for engineering component development.
02
Yes, parameter transferability is one of the SLM 125's key advantages as an R&D platform. SLM Solutions designs its product line for scalable process development — parameters developed on the 125 can be transferred to the SLM 280 and SLM 500 with validation. This makes the SLM 125 a genuine production preparation tool rather than a standalone research curiosity.
03
Build rates are modest given the single 400 W laser and small build volume. Typical rates for common alloys like AlSi10Mg or IN718 run 2-5 cm³/h depending on layer thickness and scan strategy. For research applications this is generally acceptable; for any volume production requirement, the SLM 280 or larger system would be more appropriate.
04
The SLM 125 has relatively modest facility requirements. The compact footprint fits in standard laboratory spaces, power requirements are manageable with standard electrical service, and argon gas consumption is lower than larger machines. Standard laboratory ventilation is generally sufficient. Powder handling safety protocols and proper storage remain necessary regardless of machine size.
05
SLM Solutions, originally based in Lübeck, Germany, was acquired by Nikon Corporation in 2023. Under Nikon ownership, the company continues to develop and market the SLM product line. The acquisition provides SLM Solutions with Nikon's optical and precision engineering expertise plus significant capital for R&D. Existing customers and the installed base continue to be supported.
Videos
Top 3D Shop Inc.
Design World
Multistation Digital Manufacturing
Nikon SLM Solutions
Nikon SLM Solutions
Community Discussions
Community discussion — Does anyone have a Renishaw SLM 125/AM 125? - Practical Machinist
Community discussion — Anyone using Supplied Air Respirators? - Practical Machinist
Options and configuration advice — South Bend Links: Sources for Info, Parts, and Supplies
Community discussion — Lube timer question - Practical Machinist
Owner experience and review — Need Help! MAPPS I assistance on Mori SL25 - cnczone.com
Troubleshooting and problem-solving — Need Help! EX357 Turret Index Time Over (R1606.2) SL400 - CNCzone
Community discussion — PROGRAMMING MANUAL - CNCzone
Troubleshooting and problem-solving — Mori Seiki Fanuc O-T Error EX357 - CNCzone
Community discussion — Anyone know how to clear This? : r/Machinists - Reddit
Community discussion — Help with Mori Seiki and bar feeder : r/Machinists - Reddit
Pricing and buying discussion — Can you guys explain this please? : r/Machinists - RedditEnd mill coatings? : r/Machinists - RedditWhat kind of Coolant does your shop use? : r/Machinists - Reddit
Pricing and buying discussion — End mill coatings? : r/Machinists - Reddit
Links to community discussions. Summaries are editorial — visit the original thread for full context.
Related Machines
DMG Mori LASERTEC 30 SLM
Matsuura LUMEX Avance-60
EOS M 290
EOS M 400-4
Renishaw RenAM 500Q
