09-03-2014: 3D Systems acquired Belgian metal Additive Manufacturer – LayerWise

It was one of the most valuable acquisitions by 3D Systems during Avi Reichental era

On September 3, 2014, 3D Systems announced the acquisition of the Belgian company LayerWise – at the time, the leading provider of advanced direct metal 3D printing and manufacturing services. The company produced a range of components using its proprietary line of metal 3D printers for clients in the aerospace, high-precision equipment, and medical and dental industries.

LayerWise was founded in 2008 by Jonas Van Vaerenbergh and Peter Mercelis. The company was involved in designing and building its own direct metal additive manufacturing systems. Its unique metal powder 3D printers could produce functional metal parts with a relative part density of up to 99.98%, matching the mechanical properties of conventional metals while significantly reducing unit weight.

These capabilities led to the adoption of LayerWise’s manufacturing services by clients in the medical device, transportation, and precision equipment industries, where weight reduction, strength, and accuracy are of paramount importance.

LayerWise was mainly known for producing medical implants and advanced metal parts. The company developed technologies that enabled the production of high-quality dental and orthopedic implants, as well as precision parts for the aerospace and automotive industries. Its solutions allowed for the creation of complex geometries that were difficult or impossible to achieve using traditional manufacturing methods.

LayerWise, created eg. a groundbreaking titanium lower jaw implant. This award-winning implant was developed in collaboration with medical and academic partners to treat a senior patient suffering from progressive osteomyelitis. The implant, featuring articulated joints and other complex structures, was printed as a single part using LayerWise’s technology.

Post-processing included polishing and a bioceramic coating. The implant was successfully implanted, restoring the patient's facial aesthetics and speech within hours. This innovation won the 2012 AM-Award from the Additive Manufacturing Network in Belgium.

The acquisition of LayerWise by 3D Systems was one of the most valuable acquisitions at that time (between 2001 and 2015, the company acquired as many as 54 companies). Through this acquisition, 3D Systems gained access to advanced metal 3D printing technologies and the expertise of LayerWise, enabling the company to secure a leading position in this field.

Source: www.3dsystems.com