3D Systems and its quest for world domination in the 3D printing spectrum had been a little quiet of late, so we’re happy to see they’re still spending the moolah on acquisitions – this time Phenix Systems.
The O-eschewing company designs, manufactures and sells proprietary ‘Direct Metal 3D Printers’ – laser sinterers – that are good for 6 to 9 micron-layer dense metal and ceramic parts from powder.
This opens up a whole new world of materials for 3D Systems – including stainless steel, tool steel, super alloys, non-ferrous alloys, precious metals and alumina – giving them a foothold in the fast-growing aerospace, automotive, defense and medical sectors.
The whole deal is expected to be finalised by the end of July. In the meantime it will be interesting to see how this news is received by the other 3D printing providers, and whether this sparks a fresh spate of the ‘3D Printer Arms Race’ that began a few years back.
