Sandvik has just joined GE Additive’s Binder Jet Partner Program. Since Sandvik is a materials producer, the announcement might surprise one or two as GE Additive already has a materials company in its additive manufacturing unit: AP&C. And the AM group does not usually receive powders from another supplier.
Therefore, the collaboration between Sandvik and GE Additive will be quite unique. Sandvik is acknowledged for the production & commercialization of the Osprey® brand, one of the widest alloy program for additive manufacturing on the market. The materials producer will then complement AP&C’s materials portfolio by supplying this range of materials. Furthermore, the Sandvik team will take advantage of GE Additive’s H2 Binder Jet beta machine to support its internal and external customers.
“Sandvik is a leading expert in gas-atomized additive manufacturing powders, as well as in optimizing the materials to customers’ specific print processes and applications,” said Kristian Egeberg, President of Sandvik Additive Manufacturing. “The materials collaboration with GE Additive offers great opportunities to qualify our wide range of Osprey® metal powders for their new Binder Jet platform, to enhance end customer productivity and product performance.”
GE Additive’s Binder Jet beta partner program
Based on the company’s strength in industrializing additive manufacturing, GE Additive’s Binder Jet beta partner program gathers partners that will bring their contribution to the growth of the manufacturer’s Binder Jet Technology.
The program is not to be confused with GE Additive’s Manufacturing Partner Network thataims to create an ecosystem of company that will help customers make additive parts in volume. As part of the Binder Jet beta partner program, companies will be involved in the development of the beta H2 system into pilot lines. They will probably also work on a commercially available factory solution in 2021.
“Our approach to Binder Jet is making additive mass production a reality in every industry. And while it would be relatively easier to launch individual machines, we continue to hear from customers, especially in the automotive industry, that they need a complete solution that can scale.” said Jacob Brunsberg, Binder Jet product line leader, GE Additive.
Attracting a growing player like Sandvik “remains a cornerstone of [GE Additive] Binder Jet commercialization strategy”.
With over 150 years of expertise in materials technology and more than 40 years’ experience of powder atomization, Sandvik’s extensive expertise continues to grow and diversify, especially since it acquired a significant stake in BEAMIT. The company is uniquely positioned to bring a relevant experience in post processing methods such as metal cutting, sintering and heat treatment, and expertise across the value chain – from metal powder to finished additive components.
Remember, you can post free of charge job opportunities in the AM Industry on 3D ADEPT Media or look for a job via our job board. Make sure to follow us on our social networks and subscribe to our weekly newsletter : Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn & Instagram ! If you want to be featured in the next issue of our digital magazine or if you hear a story that needs to be heard, make sure to send it to contact@3dadept.com