As the 3D printing space continues to evolve and rapidly expand, and with analysts expecting a 30-40% compound annual growth rate moving forward over the next 4-5 years, it’s no wonder why so many companies seem to be entering the industry with optimism. Over the past two to three years, the amount of investment capital poured into additive manufacturing has soared, as investors want a piece of the pie before it’s too late.
Today, yet another substantial investment has been made, this time by Neff Capital Management LLC, a private equity firm which specializes in investments in midsize companies. The firm, which was founded in 2010, typically invests into companies which focus on aviation flight crew management, maintenance, repair and overhaul, as well as parts supply.
Today’s move will provide $10 million in capital for the launch of a brand new company called Sintavia, with the funds expected to be rolled into the company gradually over the next two years as an expansion plan is put into place.
“We are excited to be a part of the coming industrial revolution within the aerospace and defense industry,” said Brian Neff, Managing Partner of Neff Capital Management. “Over the next few years, as more and more production is shifted to additive manufacturing within this industry, serial manufacturers with exceptional quality control, like Sintavia, will be in high demand by the OEMs. Within 20 years, there will be a seismic shift in how we manufacture for the aerospace and defense industry. However, producers who do not understand or are incapable of producing parts with repetitive quality will not play a role in the OEM supply chain.”
The funds will be used for the acquisition of various 3D printers and other systems, including three SLM Solutions SLM 280HL dual laser machines. These 3D printers incorporate advanced laser melting systems to fabricate metal parts as large as 280 x 280 x 350mm in size, and utilize a sophisticated filtration system to ensure accurate and safe production. Sintavia will produce parts for the aerospace and defense industry, making sure to adhere to quality control standards required by each respective industry.
“In our metallurgical and metrology lab, we will be able to perform a large number of tests to ensure the quality control of our production, including hardness, fatigue, impact, temperature, and tensile testing,” said Doug Hedges, General Manager of Sintavia.
Let us know your thoughts on yet another substantial investment in the future of metal additive manufacturing. Discuss this story in the Sintavia forum thread on 3DPB.com