Finnish additive manufacturing company 3DStep Oy has joined NORDSEC Nordic Defence and Security Cluster, bringing expertise in industrial metal 3D printing, on-demand manufacturing and production of critical components to the growing Nordic defence and security network.

Based in Ylöjärvi, Finland, 3DStep provides an end-to-end additive manufacturing service, covering the entire process from concept development and engineering to production, post-processing and assembly. The company produces both metal and polymer components to customer specifications, serving customers in the process, manufacturing and defence industries.

A key capability is industrial metal 3D printing. 3DStep uses laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) technology from SLM Solutions to manufacture high-strength components. Production is based on validated parameters, documented material data and controlled production steps, while printed parts can subsequently be heat treated, machined and finished according to the requirements of the application.  
Illustration: 3DStep OY

Strengthening Nordic defence and industry

3DStep is already operating in Norway and has established a sales office in Oslo. Through its NORDSEC membership, the company aims to find new partners and customers and strengthen its Nordic operations and presence within the defence sector.

“We are looking for partners and customers to strengthen our Nordic operations and support the development of Nordic defence capabilities,” says CEO Petri Pitkänen.

The company also wants to contribute its expertise in manufacturing, innovation and co-creation to the cluster, offering services ranging from the initial idea to serial production.

Illustration: 3DStep OY

From digital file to finished component

3DStep operates two SLM Solutions 280 HL Twin Laser metal printers. The machines have a build volume of 280 × 280 × 365 mm and work with layer thicknesses of 30–60 micrometres.

The process does not end when a component leaves the printer. 3DStep offers post-processing including heat treatment, machining, coatings and finishing to improve characteristics such as strength, precision, surface quality and performance. Its quality assurance includes ISO 9001-certified processes, documented material data and third-party testing when required.

Combining digital manufacturing with on-demand production can reduce the need to keep components in physical inventory, while 3D printing also makes it possible to manufacture complex parts and geometries that can be challenging to produce using conventional methods.

Welcoming a new member

NORDSEC continues to grow as a cross-border cluster connecting industry, technology companies, research environments and public stakeholders across the Nordic region.

With 3DStep, the cluster gains expertise in industrial additive manufacturing and metal 3D printing, including technologies for producing high-strength and critical components for industry and defence.

We warmly welcome 3DStep to NORDSEC Nordic Defence and Security Cluster.