Czechia isn’t just about Prusa 3D printers anymore—it’s all about ONE3D too!
The Atomic Layers: S4E26 (00112)
Atomic Layer of the Day:
For well over a decade, when it came to additive manufacturing, the Czech Republic was associated almost exclusively with Prusa Research – the producer of ultra-affordable, amateur 3D printers that rivaled much more expensive desktop-grade systems in quality. But this is starting to change. Yes, Prusa is still incredibly well-known – probably more than ever before. However, it’s beginning to face serious competition in terms of recognition... from ONE3D!
You might have seen the news last week when, at Formnext, ONE3D announced the purchase of Nikon SLM Solutions' large-format NXG 600E. The machine boasts a build volume of 600 x 600 x 1500 mm and is equipped with 12 1000-watt lasers. This is a significant investment (several million euros; much more than "two").
This wasn’t ONE3D’s first large metal machine – the company already had an EOS M400-4 installed, with a build volume of 400 mm in XYZ axes. Additionally, they operate machines for printing with powdered polyamides (SLS and MJF) as well as one of the largest SLA systems in Central Europe, the NEO800, which has a build volume of 800 x 800 x 600 mm.
Moreover, ONE3D specializes in advanced post-processing techniques like chemical smoothing, abrasive blasting, and machining.
So, they’ve got a lot of equipment. Sure, in Germany many companies have even more (and I don’t even want to mention China), but we’re talking about the Czech Republic here. Being the biggest in a country always brings more opportunities than being one of five or ten equals.
The Czech Republic has two significant advantages over other European countries (including my own, Poland):
The market there is relatively concentrated among a few key players, rather than being fragmented across dozens or even hundreds of tiny companies that wear each other out.
The Czech president and prime minister love 3D printing, show it at every opportunity, and are generous in supporting their national champions.
Thus, ONE3D has just made headlines in the largest AM industry media, and it’s likely they’ll stay there for a while.
Atomic Layer from the Past:
11-26-2014: Protoplant announced two new Proto-Pasta filaments - stainless steel and magnetic iron.
News & Gossips:
Leading Western companies (particularly in Europe) are letting go of a lot of talent. This is due to restructuring and radical cost-cutting measures. Those leaving are primarily the highest earners – which means the best. And guess who’s hiring them? Other Western companies or perhaps those from the East? So don’t be surprised when things turn out the way they do, okay?
Impossible Objects – the creators of the ultra-fast CBAM 3D printing technology (an alternative to LOM using carbon fiber sheets and powdered polyamide) – is finally set to arrive in Europe. The machines are originally manufactured in the USA, near Chicago.
BigRep showcased the old-but-new BigRep ONE.5, featuring 40% higher filament flow rates. I wonder if, and when, they’ll switch to pellets, which would make much more sense for them?