It’s one thing to see HP entering the additive manufacturing arena, but quite another to see machine tool heavyweights like Mazak and DMG MORI exploring the benefits of 3D printing for manufacturing. Now, Methods Machine Tools is getting in on the action via Methods 3D, Inc., a newly formed subsidiary that’s opened seven additive manufacturing laboratories across the U.S.
The new labs are outfitted with 18 printers utilizing a variety of technologies, including direct metal printing (DMP), select laser sintering (SLS), stereolithography (SLA) and Multi-Jet models running 14 different materials. Post-processing equipment such as EDM, CNC machining, automation and inspection is also onsite. Each location is staffed by a team of sales, application engineers and service technicians.
The labs correspond to the locations of Methods Machine Tools technology centers in the following U.S. cities:
- Sudbury, Mass. (Boston)
- Detroit
- Charlotte, N.C.
- Chicago
- Phoenix
- San Francisco
- Los Angeles
“Our new additive labs are ideal for manufacturing professionals to consult our experts and explore ways to design and produce their components using the latest 3D technology integrated with conventional machining, automation and more,” said James Hanson, COO of Methods 3D. “Engineers have been bringing their application challenges to us and we have been working with them to implement this technology into their manufacturing operations.”
Last year, Methods Machine Tools announced a partner agreement with 3D Systems, a provider of 3D digital design and fabrication solutions.
“By partnering with 3D Systems,” Hanson continued, “whose core competencies complement Methods' suite of metalworking machining and automation solutions, we will provide our customers the most advanced 3D printing available, in addition to the highest level of service, support and solutions that Methods Machine Tools is known for. We are at the front end of this innovative technology that is poised to grow exponentially.”
For more information, visit the Methods Machine Tools website.