MXT extrusion technology

Using metering extruder technology (MXT) and CNC control systems and drives, the Pro and Edge fused filament fabrication (FFF) 3D printers offer speed, precision, and quality for industrial applications and full connectivity to integrate additive manufacturing (AM) with Industry 4.0.

Engineers and designers can create functional prototypes, composite tooling, end-use parts, and small-number serial production. https://www.bigrep.com

Global network expands

Tecnologia & Design in Italy, Prometheus in Korea, Tridi in Mexico, and Fathom in the U.S. have joined the Global Manufacturing Network (GMN), a group that pioneers cloud-enabled tools and subscription services for 3D printers. New members join existing partners Objective 3D in Australia, Teilefabrik in Germany, MCAE in Czech Republic, +90 in Turkey, along with Xometry, R&D Technologies, and In’tech Industries in the U.S. Members manage critical 3D printing systems and have access to the Aircraft Interiors Certification Solution.

With access to additive technologies and services, members can better scale their business and serve large orders on-demand. GMN currently spans four continents as the largest globally connected network of 3D printing service providers.

Plans are to extend the connected system solutions to select 3D parts providers this year. https://www.stratasysdirect.com

Quality management software

Bright AM additive manufacturing software tracks and manages disparate parts 3D-printed together on a single build plate, incoming orders, work-in-progress, and delivery confirmation. It supports unique serial numbers for each part being printed and tracks nonconformities.

Users can meet part specification requirements and automatically create an audit trail with specification documents, operating requirements, and media attachments that can automatically cross-reference specifications to impacts.https://www.go-bluestreak.com; https://www.bright-am.com

Additive grew 24% in 2018

SmarTech’s 2019 Additive Manufacturing (AM) Market Outlook and Summary Report estimates that the AM industry grew 24% in 2018, with a total market value of $9.3 billion.

The report forecasts the total AM industry for 2018 through 2027, tracking value chain and activity including hardware, materials, software, and part production services. In 2018, all segments experienced balanced growth, with the polymer AM segment growing to $5.5 billion.