Welcome to the latest edition of Sliced, where we bring you the latest news and updates from the additive manufacturing sector. Today, we have several exciting developments to cover, including new materials, partnerships, and business deals. So, let’s dive in!
First up, we have a collaboration between Balena and designer Kitty Shukman to create a compostable 3D printed slide. This innovative project demonstrates the potential of 3D printing in creating sustainable and eco-friendly products. By using compostable materials, Balena and Kitty Shukman are showcasing the versatility of additive manufacturing in addressing environmental concerns.
Moving on to business deals and acquisitions, IperionX has recently announced an agreement with the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Ground Vehicle Systems Center (DEVCOM GVSC). This partnership aims to evaluate the ballistic testing properties of IperionX’s high-strength titanium plate components. If successful, these components could be integrated into future U.S. Army ground vehicle designs, reducing reliance on foreign imports and establishing a domestic supply chain.
In another exciting development, Boston Micro Fabrication (BMF) has qualified Mechnano’s Formula1µ resin for its 3D printers. This resin offers electrostatic dissipative properties, making it suitable for the fabrication of prototypes, manufacturing aids, and end-use parts. With the help of Mechnano’s technology, BMF is pushing the boundaries of high-resolution 3D printing.
Sigma Additive Solutions has made headlines with its acquisition of NextTrip, a travel technology company. This strategic move not only strengthens Sigma’s position in the market but also positions NextTrip for a potential Nasdaq listing. Additionally, Sigma has signed an agreement to sell intellectual property assets related to its additive quality assurance product, further enhancing shareholder value.
Shifting gears, we turn our attention to Xometry, a global manufacturing marketplace. Xometry’s Thomasnet.com has introduced the “Build America, Buy America” (BABA) certification, which allows domestic manufacturers to showcase their adherence to the BABA initiative. This certification is an essential part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and aims to support US-based suppliers and strengthen the domestic supply chain.
Lastly, Australian large-format 3D printer manufacturer AML3D has secured its first order for a 2600 Edition ARCEMY system. This order positions Laser Welding Solutions (LWS) as a supplier of Nickel Aluminum Bronze (NAB) components to the US Navy’s Submarine Industrial base. By utilizing AML3D’s metal 3D printing technology, LWS can provide tailored NAB components that meet the stringent requirements of the US Navy.
That concludes this edition of Sliced, where we have covered some of the latest developments in the additive manufacturing industry. Stay tuned for more updates in the future, and don’t forget to submit your nominations for the upcoming 2023 3D Printing Industry Awards before the deadline.
Revolutionizing Additive Manufacturing: Powerhouse Partnerships and Expanding Opportunities
The additive manufacturing industry continues to witness dynamic growth and innovation. Today, we bring you a collection of exciting news from the sector, highlighting powerful partnerships, industry collaborations, and groundbreaking advancements that are set to shape the future of additive manufacturing.
AML3D, an Australian specialist in metal additive manufacturing, has secured a 12-month lease agreement with LWS (Land and Waters Systems), a leading US Navy supplier. Valued at approximately A$0.27 million (US$0.22 million), the lease includes software licensing and technical support. As part of its US scale-up strategy, AML3D aims to embed its ARCEMY systems within US Navy suppliers, facilitating LWS’s entry into ARCEMY production. The system is set to operate in Houston, Texas, within 8 to 10 weeks, expediting AML3D’s US expansion.
ASTM International, a global standards organization, has signed a memorandum of understanding with South Korea’s 3D Fusion Industry Association (3DFIA). The agreement, formalized during the 10th ASTM International Additive Manufacturing Center of Excellence (AM CoE) Snapshot Workshop, aims to foster collaboration between the two entities. Training, research projects, and advisory services will be key focus areas to enhance international collaboration between ASTM and South Korea’s additive manufacturing industry.
whatt.io Inc, an additive manufacturing and micro-factory operations expert, has joined the 3MF Consortium as an associate member. The 3MF Consortium, comprising industry leaders, strives to establish a universal, high-fidelity format for 3D printing and digital manufacturing. whatt.io aims to advance digital production by enhancing digital product passport solutions, especially for spare parts. It plans to introduce the ‘3MF Vault’ solution, expanding the capabilities of the 3MF format with metadata inclusion for copyright and ownership details.
6K Additive, a subsidiary of 6K, has secured a 5-year Blanket Purchase Agreement (BPA) from the Army Contracting Command to support the US Army Development Command (DEVCOM). This agreement will bolster weapons R&D efforts at DEVCOM, catering to the growing demand for prototypes and low-rate initial production. 6K Additive utilizes its proprietary UniMelt microwave plasma platform to produce high-quality metal powders, including strategically vital metals like nickel and titanium. This sustainable domestic supply ensures material security, quality, and consistency for the US military.
In the realm of partnerships, 3D printing software developer 3YOURMIND and Phillips Corp. Federal Division have teamed up with Marine Corps System Command’s Advanced Manufacturing Operations Cell (AMOC) to enhance digital additive manufacturing capabilities. By integrating 3YOURMIND’s part identification software with the Digital Manufacturing Data Vault (DMDV), they aim to streamline the approval of spare parts for field use, aligning with the Department of Defense’s mission to strengthen supply chains and leverage additive technologies for legacy equipment sustainability.
BEAMIT SpA, an additive manufacturing service provider, and Constellium, a global leader in aluminum solutions, have inked a letter of intent to collaborate on advanced aluminum solutions. This partnership focuses on leveraging their expertise in additive manufacturing and aluminum across various industries. Extensive research and development efforts will be undertaken to enhance aluminum properties for additive manufacturing processes.
These collaborations and advancements pave the way for remarkable progress in additive manufacturing. Through partnerships, industry collaborations, and cutting-edge technologies, the sector continues to push boundaries, enabling new possibilities in digital production and shaping the future of manufacturing. Stay tuned for more exciting updates as we witness the additive manufacturing revolution unfold.
Title: Revolutionizing the World of Manufacturing: Advancements in Additive Manufacturing
Introduction:
The manufacturing industry continues to evolve rapidly, driven by technological advancements and the pursuit of sustainable solutions. In this blog post, we will explore several groundbreaking collaborations and innovations that are reshaping the world of manufacturing, particularly in the realm of additive manufacturing. Although the story and logic remain unchanged, the content has been reimagined to provide a fresh perspective.
Collaboration Propels the Development of Advanced Aluminum Solutions:
One significant collaboration in the additive manufacturing space involves BEAMIT SpA, a manufacturing proficiency company, and Constellium, a global leader in aluminum solutions. By combining BEAMIT’s expertise in additive manufacturing and Constellium’s deep knowledge of aluminum alloys, the two companies aim to develop advanced aluminum materials that meet the demand for lightweight and high-strength materials. This partnership not only prioritizes sustainability through aluminum’s recyclability and lightweight properties but also represents a significant milestone in the evolution of additive manufacturing.
Koenigsegg Automotive Enhances 3D Printing Processes:
Swedish sports car manufacturer Koenigsegg Automotive has taken a significant step forward in its 3D printing processes by integrating the cloud-based 3DPrinterOS platform. With a fleet of 17 machines, including FDM printers and resin-based printers, Koenigsegg Automotive has experienced substantial growth in its 3D printing capabilities. The versatility offered by 3DPrinterOS allows engineers to seamlessly switch between different printer types for specific tasks, thus improving efficiency and quality. Real-time monitoring and centralized management have also contributed to the overall productivity and profitability of Koenigsegg’s 3D printing activities.
Black Buffalo 3D Revolutionizes Construction 3D Printing:
Construction 3D printing company Black Buffalo 3D has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Saudi Readymix Concrete Co., a leading producer of ready-mix products in Saudi Arabia. This collaboration aims to manufacture Black Buffalo 3D’s proprietary structural ink using local materials, promoting reliability, sustainability, and the local production of ink for 3D construction printers. The ink will be utilized in the region to print housing, commercial buildings, and infrastructure components, adhering to local building code standards and promoting adoption in Saudi Arabia.
Evonik and LEHVOSS Group Forge Ahead in Industrial 3D Printing:
Specialty chemicals company Evonik and LEHVOSS Group, a chemical and mineral specialties group, have joined forces to advance industrial 3D printing. LEHVOSS will develop its 3D printing formulations using Evonik’s PA613 polymer chemistry, incorporating it into their product range under the LUVOSINT brand. This collaboration aims to unlock new applications within the automotive sector, particularly with regards to higher-temperature settings. The incorporation of Evonik’s INFINAM PA 6005 P (PA613) polymer powder offers enhanced processability and dimensional stability, catering to diverse 3D printing processes.
A Reliable Domestic Supply Chain for Lithium-ion Batteries:
In support of the Inflation Reduction Act’s goal to strengthen domestic clean energy manufacturing, 6K Energy and Forge Nano have signed a five-year purchase and supply agreement. Forge Nano will utilize 6K Energy’s domestically produced NMC 811 cathode active material (CAM) for battery cell production, benefiting various applications, including DoD, aerospace, and fleet operations. With plans to open a sustainable battery material manufacturing plant in late 2024, 6K Energy’s UniMelt microwave plasma technology will contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly production process. This agreement aims to establish a 100% domestic supply chain for lithium-ion batteries, reducing dependence on foreign sources.
GREENFILL3D and COLORISED Join Forces for Sustainable Design:
Polish startup GREENFILL3D has partnered with COLORISED, an interior design platform, to create a unique line of lamps known as ECO Lamps. Crafted from biodegradable and compostable materials such as polylactide, these lamps boast distinctive shapes and colors. Through this collaboration, GREENFILL3D and COLORISED are driving innovation in sustainable design, offering environmentally friendly lighting options to conscientious consumers.
Conclusion:
The world of manufacturing is witnessing revolutionary advancements in additive manufacturing, driven by collaborations, cutting-edge technologies, and a focus on sustainability. The collaborations highlighted in this blog post represent the commendable efforts of industry leaders to meet the growing demand for lightweight, high-strength materials while prioritizing sustainability. These groundbreaking initiatives are shaping the future of manufacturing, bringing forth new possibilities in a wide range of industries.
Introducing the ECO Lamps: Sustainable Lighting for a Greener Future
Lighting plays a crucial role in our daily lives, but have you ever considered the impact it has on the environment? Traditional lamps often end up in landfills, contributing to environmental pollution. However, there is a brighter and greener alternative available – the ECO Lamps.
What makes ECO Lamps truly unique is their composition. These innovative lamps are infused with wheat bran and made from fully compostable thermoplastic starch, making them biodegradable under industrial conditions and suitable for home composting. By using certified bioplastics from leading Polish companies, ECO Lamps ensure sustainability from production to disposal.
The ECO Lamps come in two categories: Kolora Spektro and Brilanta Brano. Each category offers a range of vibrant colors and patterns to suit different preferences and styles. Additionally, these lamps are equipped with color-matched fabric-coated power cables and energy-efficient LED bulbs, providing both functionality and aesthetics.
What sets ECO Lamps apart is their production process. These lamps are 3D printed using sustainable materials, incorporating the latest advancements in technology. The use of Tri-Tech 3D’s Polyamide (PA) 12 as a Selective Absorption Fusion (SAF) material ensures cost-effective production with improved thermal control, resulting in better part consistency and intricate geometries. This compatibility with the Stratasys H350 3D Printer, known for its industrial-grade SAF technology, guarantees accurate, consistent, and high-production-rate output.
Robert Pitts, the sales manager at Tri-Tech 3D, expressed his excitement about the use of PA12, stating, “After listening to feedback about PA11 from users, it’s great to see that users now have access to the best powder bed material on the market. Its thermal control and chemical stability improve part consistency, making it viable for a range of applications, including complex end-use parts.”
But the sustainable materials revolution doesn’t stop there. US 3D printer OEM Carbon has unveiled their latest elastomer material, EPU 46. This versatile material offers high-performance properties, superior durability, and a wide array of color options. EPU 46 is designed to meet diverse industry demands, allowing for material stiffness adjustments without compromising printability or inherent properties. The material contains 40% bio-based material, contributing to Carbon’s sustainability efforts. Its speed, customization options, color fastness, and increased stiffness make it suitable for various applications, including saddles, footwear, and grips.
Additionally, a breakthrough in the additive manufacturing industry comes from the Technology Innovation Institute (TII) with the introduction of AMALLOY, an aluminum alloy powder optimized for laser beam powder bed fusion (PBF-LB) systems. AMALLOY offers cost-effectiveness and high strength with excellent printability, providing a 33% strength increase compared to commercial AlSi10Mg alloys while maintaining ductility. Its unique chemical composition and metallurgical properties make it less susceptible to hot cracking, enabling higher strengths without cracking.
To address the challenges of excess powder handling after depowdering processes, Solukon has developed an automated powder collection unit. The Solukon Powder Collection Unit (SFM-PCU) utilizes an integrated vacuum conveyor system to transport excess powder to a large container, improving efficiency and safety. This innovative solution eliminates the need for direct contact with the powder, enhancing occupational health and safety compliance in larger systems and serial production.
In terms of financial news, Forward AM, a subsidiary of BASF, has experienced significant growth in the first half of 2023, with a 39% increase in performance and a 51% rise in material business compared to the same period in 2022. This growth aligns with the projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19% for the 3D printing industry in 2023. Forward AM’s focus on collaborative industry partnerships and ecological sustainability strengthens their position as the premier independent provider of comprehensive materials and solutions. With over 800 machine/material combinations, Forward AM continues to promote AM adoption across industries, emphasizing profitability and sustainability through process optimization.
The developments in sustainable materials, innovative production processes, and improved handling solutions showcased in this blog post demonstrate the continuous progress being made toward a greener and more sustainable 3D printing industry. By embracing these advancements, we can contribute to a brighter and more environmentally friendly future.
Xi’an Bright Laser Technologies (BLT), a company specializing in superior materials and services, has recently announced impressive financial results for the first half of 2023. The company’s operating income has seen a significant increase of 58.53% compared to the previous year, amounting to approximately $60.22 million. Furthermore, BLT has achieved a net profit of around $2.44 million, showcasing its strong financial position.
BLT has been successful in expanding its presence in the aerospace and aviation sector by collaborating with major global aerospace players. Additionally, the company has made strides in the consumer market and is making progress in the electronics industry. BLT continues to focus on mass production capabilities and is expanding its production capacity to meet the growing demand.
In the software news sector, Markforged Holding Corporation, SelectAM, and Artec 3D have introduced innovative advancements in 3D printing technologies. Markforged has unveiled Digital Source, an on-demand platform that allows manufacturers to securely license and print certified parts as needed. This platform reduces inventory costs, streamlines replacements, and promotes sustainability.
SelectAM, a Finnish AM software company, has introduced an end-to-end workflow that simplifies the ordering process for various AM technologies and materials. Users can assess CADs, receive instant AM price quotes, estimate savings compared to traditional manufacturing, and access premium features with a subscription.
Artec 3D, a Luxembourg-based 3D scanner manufacturer, has launched Artec Studio 18 (AS18) which enhances the capabilities of its 3D scanners and data processing software. AS18 features seamless merging of multi-resolution datasets and incorporates AI to create lifelike color 3D models. The software streamlines reverse engineering and quality inspection tasks, offering instant defect identification and compliance with industry standards.
Sir David McMurtry, the Co-Founder and Executive Chairman of Renishaw, has been honored with the prestigious I-Form Advanced Manufacturing Excellence Award 2023. This award recognizes McMurtry’s significant contributions to advanced manufacturing innovation and research. Renishaw’s commitment to collaborative research in advanced manufacturing is highlighted by its participation in the I-Form Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre.
Sigma Additive Solutions and Nano Dimension have made headlines in the law and regulatory news sector. However, further details about their recent developments are not provided in the given text.
These recent developments in the fields of superior materials, 3D printing technologies, and advanced manufacturing highlight the continuous advancements and innovations being made by companies worldwide. These advancements not only contribute to increased efficiency and cost-effectiveness but also have the potential to revolutionize various industries.
Conducting a 1-for-20 reverse stock split is a strategic move by the company to meet the Nasdaq Listing Rule requirement and facilitate the acquisition of NextTrip Holdings, Inc. and the sale of certain quality assurance software assets. This move will not change stockholders’ percentage ownership but will reduce outstanding shares significantly. The company’s common stock will continue trading on the Nasdaq Capital Market with a new symbol and CUSIP number. All other financial instruments tied to the stock will be adjusted accordingly.
In other news, Nano Dimension, an Israeli electronics 3D printer manufacturer, has filed a patent application for utilizing large language models in analyzing data produced by industrial machines. This technology, developed by their in-house AI group, DeepCube, will enable real-time data analysis and scalable implementation in Nano Dimension’s systems and solutions. The patent focuses on analyzing “log data alpha-numeric streams,” which are crucial for industrial process operation and parameters. With this technology, Nano Dimension aims to bring ChatGPT-like capabilities to analyzing extensive log streams with cost-effective scalability.
Catalysis Additive Tooling, a US-based 3D printed tooling solutions provider, has expanded into Europe by granting a license for its novel 3D printed tooling technology to innoMold, a respected company near Düsseldorf, Germany. InnoMold will leverage this advanced technology to manufacture tools, starting operations in October 2023. This technology has significant applications in thermoforming, seat foam manufacturing, and jigs and fixtures, allowing global customers to reduce tooling costs and manufacturing time. The President/CEO of Catalysis Additive Tooling expressed excitement about this partnership, emphasizing their aim to strengthen their global leadership position in 3D tooling applications.
Vienna-based two-photon polymerization specialist, UpNano, is celebrating its fifth anniversary as a pioneer in high-resolution 3D printing. Over the past five years, UpNano has introduced innovative features like the tilt-frame mechanism, advanced bio inks, and software upgrades to enhance printing speeds. Their NanoOne 3D printer lineup has gained exponential sales growth and attracted attention from academia and industry. UpNano continues to advance 2PP 3D printing with a focus on precision and speed, positioning themselves as contenders in serial production applications.
Material science company, Balena, has partnered with designer Kitty Shukman to create a 3D printed slide called “ROOTS.” This collaboration showcases the fusion of fashion, technology, and environmental responsibility using Balena’s fully compostable elastomer, BioCir. Shukman’s design integrates roots and stems into the structure of the slide, symbolizing organic growth and emphasizing sustainability in fashion. Balena’s goal is to revolutionize fashion’s sustainability with 3D printing and advanced materials like BioCir, offering responsible end-of-life recycling and supporting a sustainable future.
These developments in the 3D printing industry demonstrate the continuous innovation and potential for sustainability within the field. Companies like Nano Dimension, Catalysis Additive Tooling, UpNano, and Balena are pushing boundaries and paving the way for more efficient, eco-conscious, and technologically advanced manufacturing processes. It’s exciting to see how these advancements will shape the future of various industries and contribute to a more sustainable world.
As we look towards the future of the fashion industry, it is evident that 3D printing will continue to make its mark as a unique, bold, and sustainable medium. The possibilities of this technology are endless, and it is on its way to becoming climate neutral.
Now, let’s take a moment to ponder who will be the winners of the 2023 3D Printing Industry Awards. This is an exciting time for the additive manufacturing sector, as innovation and creativity abound. Make your nominations now and stay tuned to see which companies and individuals will come out on top!
Looking ahead, what can we expect from 3D printing in the next ten years? The future holds promise for advancements in engineering and manufacturing. However, there will be challenges that need to be tackled in order to fully realize the potential of additive manufacturing.
To ensure that you stay up to date with all the latest news in the world of 3D printing, be sure to subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter. You can also follow us on Twitter and like our page on Facebook for real-time updates. And don’t forget to check out our Youtube channel, where you’ll find engaging discussions, debriefs, video shorts, and webinar replays.
If you’re looking for a career in the additive manufacturing industry, be sure to visit 3D Printing Jobs. There you will find a selection of roles that may be the perfect fit for your skills and interests.
As we conclude, let us appreciate the incredible image of a 3D printed slide. This photo, courtesy of Balena, serves as a reminder of the beauty and potential that exists within the world of 3D printing.
So, let’s embark on this journey together. The future of 3D printing is bright, and there is much to be excited about. Stay curious, stay innovative, and together, let’s shape the future of fashion and manufacturing.
“Why did the 3D printer go to therapy? Because it had too many layers of unresolved issues!”
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