10-22-2019: GKN Powder Metallurgy acquired FORECAST 3D, expanding its additive manufacturing capabilities with plastics
Forecast 3D was one of the oldest and largest privately-owned additive manufacturing companies in the U.S.
On October 22, 2019, GKN Powder Metallurgy—a global producer of metal powders and parts—acquired Forecast 3D, an American company specializing in plastic 3D printing technologies. The acquisition aimed to expand GKN Powder Metallurgy's reach in additive manufacturing markets and strengthen its position as a leader in this rapidly growing industry.
GKN Powder Metallurgy was the world's largest producer of metal powders and metal-based components. Headquartered in the UK, the company primarily operated in European, Chinese, and central US markets. By acquiring Forecast 3D, which was based in California, GKN expanded its presence to the U.S. West Coast and broadened its offerings to include plastic 3D printing, enabling it to provide comprehensive services in both metal and polymer additive manufacturing.
Forecast 3D was one of the oldest and largest privately-owned additive manufacturing companies in the U.S. Founded in 1994, it offered 3D printers across all major technologies. Forecast 3D became one of the first providers of DMLS (Direct Metal Laser Sintering) in 2007 and, in 2017, became the official West Coast Experience Center for HP’s Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) technology.
The company provided a wide range of services, from prototyping to full-scale production, which perfectly complemented GKN’s metal 3D printing offerings. This acquisition created synergy, allowing both companies to offer comprehensive solutions for both metal and plastic 3D printing while expanding their global reach.
Both GKN and Forecast 3D had strong ties with HP and its 3D printing technologies. By joining forces, the companies aimed to accelerate the production of high-quality end-use parts. The acquisition also gave GKN the opportunity to expand into new industries.
Today, Forecast 3D continues to offer manufacturing services using technologies such as FDM, SLA, PolyJet, MJF & SLS, and MBJ (Metal Binder Jetting), maintaining its position as one of the leaders in the 3D printing services market.
Source: www.prnewswire.com