3D printing makes it to the Olympics
This week’s additive manufacturing news highlights the growing impact and versatility of 3D printing technology across diverse industries.
- Ursa Major adds 3D printing lab in Youngstown, Ohio to expand existing manufacturing capabilities and accelerate material development for aerospace applications.
- Materialise is 3D-printing custom eyewear through an innovative production line dedicated to additive manufacturing.
- Additive manufacturing is on display for the summer Olympic games, but not always in the most obvious places.
This Week’s Additive Manufacturing News
Rocket engine startup Ursa Major adds 3D printing lab in Ohio
Ursa Major, a rocket propulsion startup, has opened a new 3D printing lab in Youngstown, Ohio, expanding its existing manufacturing capabilities. This $14.5 million facility will focus on accelerating material development for aerospace applications, supporting the company’s growing portfolio of U.S. Department of Defense contracts.
Winners of America Makes’ Latest $6M Materials Project Announced
It focuses on advancing high-temperature metals and is divided into two areas: $3.6 million for High-Temperature Refractory Alloys and $2.4 million for High-Temperature Nickel-Based Superalloys.
Dassault Systèmes and ASICS launch 3D printed sock liner studio
Dassault Systèmes and ASICS have launched a 3D printed sock liner studio in Paris, utilizing advanced 3D printing and virtual twin technology to create personalized sock liners based on individual foot shapes. This initiative aims to provide on-demand, customizable footwear solutions and will undergo operational tests before a broader rollout in Japan in 2025.
Taiwan to Explore 3D Printing Drones
Taiwan has partnered with American aerospace firm RapidFlight to explore the potential of 3D printing in rapidly producing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The Taiwanese Ministry of National Defence recently proposed spending $175 million over the next five years to acquire around 3,200 drones.
Triastek and BioNTech to develop 3D-printed RNA therapeutics
Triastek and BioNTech have partnered to develop 3D-printed oral RNA therapeutics, leveraging Triastek’s advanced 3D printing capabilities. This collaboration aims to optimize the delivery and absorption of RNA therapeutics in the gastrointestinal tract, with potential milestone payments for Triastek exceeding $1.2 billion.
3 Unexpected uses of 3D printing for the Paris 2024 Olympics
3D printing will be used at the Paris 2024 Olympics for creating a skatepark with unique modules, durable and lightweight wheelchair racing gloves, and a 14-meter replica of the Eiffel Tower made from recycled plastic. These applications highlight the technology’s potential in reducing material use, enhancing athletic equipment, and promoting sustainability.
Pratt & Whitney to 3D print engine parts for the F-35
Pratt & Whitney plans to use 3D printing technology to manufacture parts for the F-35 fighter jet’s engines. This initiative aims to enhance production efficiency and support maintenance efforts for the aircraft’s sophisticated propulsion systems
Eye on additive eyewear: 3D printing glasses at Materialise
Materialise has leveraged its expertise in 3D printing to create custom-made eyewear frames through an innovative production line dedicated to additive manufacturing. This approach allows for unique, precise designs tailored to individual customers, enhancing both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the eyewear.
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