Finnish additive manufacturing service provider 3D Formtech announced on October 9, 2026, that it has finalized a purchase agreement for a Nikon SLM 500 metal 3D printer. The SLM 500 features a build chamber of 500 × 280 × 365 mm and can print parts up to 500 mm wide in a single piece. Designed specifically for large-scale mass production, it is Finland's first four-laser metal printing system, with advanced laser and thermal management technology ensuring precision and surface quality. The new equipment will be used for aluminum alloy 3D printing. Founder and CEO Toni Järvitalo stated that demand for lightweight, durable aluminum printed parts continues to grow, and the goal is to meet this demand both in Finland and abroad while making mass production of aluminum parts more cost-effective. This is the largest investment since 3D Formtech's founding — two years ago, the company invested in Finland's largest plastic 3D printer, significantly expanding capacity, and now it is entering metal additive manufacturing with equal commitment. Founded in 2014 and located in Jyväskylä, Finland, 3D Formtech serves Finnish and international industrial companies. The company plans to consolidate its market-leading position with dual-track printing in both plastics and metals, and this equipment investment will directly expand its aluminum part mass production capacity. Value for powder buyers: ① Expansion of metal printing service capacity in Northern Europe will drive regional demand for aluminum alloy powders (such as AlSi10Mg); ② The four-laser SLM 500 production line imposes higher requirements on powder batch consistency and fine powder yield, presenting an opportunity for powder suppliers to engage with European service bureau customers; ③ Watch the demonstration effect of its mass production pricing on aluminum part printing costs.