With the hype surrounding 3D printing higher than it’s ever been, SLM could potentially dive into a market with few publicly traded competitors and a glut of shareholders clamoring for entry into the lucrative additive manufacturing market.
Unlike 3D printing giants Stratasys and 3D Systems, SLM Solutions uses a selective laser melting technology to create objects from a metal powder. Because their technology relies on more durable materials, SLM looks to be a player in the automotive, aerospace and durable goods market.
With big companies like GE, Airbus and a number of automakers looking to exploit metal 3D printing in the manufacturing of products, companies that begin establishing proven technologies and a large capital pool will likely become big players in the next generation of manufacturing.
Currently, SLM employs 80 people in both Germany and the US, operating profitably with just over $27.8M in annual sales. With an injection of capital, the company could potentially expand their business and acquire like-minded firms that specialize in metallurgy and materials development.
If a deep pocketed metal 3D printing firm with proven technology and a drive for materials innovation can emerge, they could drastically accelerate the speed of AM adoption by heavy industry.
Image Courtesy of SLM Solutions