HP Inc. made quite a splash at the 2016 RAPID Show. Along with introducing a new 3D printer and printing technology (keep an eye on materials chemistry—it will be the next big thing in 3D printing), it announced partnerships with a number of companies. Here are a few highlights:
Materialise is collaborating with several machine manufacturers, including HP Inc. Materialise designs Build Processor software that enables a seamless integration between software and printer. The user-friendly Build Processor simplifies the 3D printing workflow, creating an improved experience that helps users get the most out of their HP 3D printer. It handles AM data preparation, allowing slice-based technology, and enabling improved handling of large files, such as those containing metadata on texturing or structures.
“This collaboration with HP combines more than 100 years of software and printing expertise. Our mutual knowledge will benefit businesses producing functional prototypes to final production parts,” stated Fried Vancraen, Materialise CEO. “Developing a Build Processor that connects HP technology to our software backbone for 3D Printing felt like a natural step. We want users of the Materialise Magics 3D Print Suite to have access to premium technologies.”
Based on input from the HP engineers and the Materialise team’s hands-on experience with the HP Jet Fusion prototype, they developed the Build Processor which, when combined with Materialise Magics 3D Print Suite, offers a better user experience for file fixing and pre-print processing.
Siemens’ new additive manufacturing offering will leverage its end-to-end design to production technology suite. With HP Multi Jet Fusion technology Siemens’ software will allow greater print control, including material characteristics down to the voxel-level, at speeds up to ten times faster and at half the cost of current 3D print systems.
Many claim that to make 3D printing a viable production alternative, the technology has to evolve in regards to speed, quality, and cost. Equally important, the data input for 3D printers has to also evolve, making software a critical component.
“For customers to take full advantage of HP’s new Multi Jet Fusion technology’s ability to control material and part characteristics at the voxel level, CAD/CAM/CAE systems have to support advanced design and analysis techniques,” said Stephen Nigro, president of HP’s 3D printing business.”
Added Chuck Grindstaff, President and Chief Executive Officer, Siemens PLM Software, “HP’s new 3D printing technology driven by Siemens’ additive manufacturing software will provide engineers a new level of design freedom, customization and speed.”
Arkema makes 3D printing materials a part of one of its main R&D platforms. In its collaboration with HP, Arkema looks to transform supply chains from “just-in-time” delivery to “here-and-now” production.
“Arkema believes that the future of 3D Printing for production parts will be driven by the development of application specific materials,” said Adrien Lapeyre, Arkema’s Global Market Manager for Technical Polymer Powders.
The HP Open Platform will allow Arkema to leverage its portfolio of materials (Rilsan® fine powders, Rilsamid® polyamides, Kynar® resins, and Pebax® copolymers, among others) and engage customers in new 3D Printing applications.
Leslie Langnau
llangnau@wtwhmedia.com
