After BASF acquired Sculpteo at the end of last year, many in the industry have been curious as to how they would roll out their first project together. After ten years as an online 3D printing service provider, Sculpteo is known for production of prototypes and parts, using a variety of materials and methods. Meanwhile, BASF is on an obvious track to solidify its position in the 3D printing industry with a growing list of acquisitions and ongoing investments with new partners.
In a press release just sent to us from the German chemicals giant, the two companies are announcing a Forward additive manufacturing factory at France-headquartered Sculpteo, along with the availability of new materials. Now a wholly-owned subsidiary of BASF, Sculpteo has expanded resources to pull from—increasing its local production volume with a range of new 3D printers too.
Forward AM materials now being offered include:
- Ultrasint TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane Powder)
- Ultrasint PA6 FR (Flame Retardant Polymer Powder)
- PP (Polypropylene Powder)
Meant for versatility in many different industrial applications, all of the above materials offer flexibility, heat-resistance, high performance, and affordability, according to the companies. Industrial users engaged in metal 3D printing will see an even more expansive selection of materials centered around powder-based fabrication and laser cutting. This includes Forward AM Ultrafuse 3D printing filaments, highlighting the Ultrafuse 316L for more efficient production and greater affordability.
3D-printed parts using Sculpteo’s PA6 FR (Image: Sculpteo)
Previous Sculpteo customers should also be interested to check out their new online platform, meant to be faster, easier to use, and offering a direct interface—whether users are ordering 3D-printed prototypes or functional end-use or serial parts made from Forward AM materials.
“By doubling Sculpteo’s production capacity we are now able to provide customers with even faster access to our innovative 3D printing materials. Additionally supported by the online platform, we are taking the next step in helping our customers move towards industrial-scale Additive Manufacturing”, said François Minec, Managing Director BASF 3D Printing Solutions.
Customers interested in post-processing and coating will also find such capabilities available on the new platform.
“This offering will be extended continuously to meet the needs of customers in all industrial sectors,” states the recent press release that BASF shared with 3DPrint.com.
If you are interested in opening an account with Sculpteo in order to begin ordering 3D printed parts, click here to find out more.
From partnering with other companies to making materials available, and more, we have followed Sculpteo over the years—along with the course BASF has continued to chart within the 3D printing industry.
[Source / Images: BASF]