This year’s winners included Techmer PM, which was recognized for its work with Oak Ridge National Laboratory, and BASF for the design of two new 3D printable engineering thermoplastic compounds. On hand to accept the award at Disney World Swan Resort in Orlando Florida were Tom Drye, Techmer’s Vice President for Emerging Markets and Innovation, and Product Development Manager Alan Franc. The finalists were chosen by a panel consisting of 50 judges representing leaders from a variety of fields. Techmer PM Chairman and Chief Executive Officer John Manuck described the significance of the award to his company:
“The R&D 100 Awards have long been considered the most globally prestigious recognition of invention and innovation, honoring great R&D pioneers and their revolutionary ideas in science and technology. It is an honor to be included as one of the newest members of the elite R&D 100 Awards community along with our collaborative partners, Oak Ridge National Laboratory and BASF.”
“These innovative compounds have enabled the transition of additive manufacturing from prototyping demonstrations to demanding industrial, aerospace, automotive, and military applications. The composition and rheology of each have been developed for deposition rates exceeding 50 pounds/hour through a 1 inch extruder. Additionally, the compounds are designed to tolerate process changes during long build times and extended residence times. This is a game changer in that it drastically cuts the expense and time associated with traditional metal tools.”
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[Images provided by Techmer PM]