Protolabs Expands 3D Printing Options with Hybrid PhotoSynthesis Technology

Rhea-AI Summary

Protolabs, a digital manufacturing leader, has expanded its 3D printing capabilities with the launch of Axtra3D Hybrid PhotoSynthesis (HPS) technology. This advanced photopolymer process offers highly repeatable and finely detailed 3D printed parts at accelerated speeds, using both a precision laser and digital light processing (DLP) system. HPS complements Protolabs' existing Carbon DLS printers, providing stronger mechanical properties and exceptionally high resolution.

The new technology supports Protolabs' strategy to serve more customer needs and expand into production use cases. Applications include production-grade parts, high-accuracy testing components, and cosmetic prototypes. Two materials are currently available: Tough Black (Loctite Henkel 3843) and Ceramic-filled (BASF 3280), expanding Protolabs' advanced photopolymer library.

Positive

• Launch of advanced Axtra3D Hybrid PhotoSynthesis (HPS) technology for 3D printing
• HPS offers highly repeatable and finely detailed parts with accelerated production speeds
• Exceptionally high resolution compared to other 3D printing processes
• Expansion of production capabilities and customer use cases
• Introduction of two new materials: Tough Black and Ceramic-filled

Negative

• None.

3D Printing Technology Expert

The introduction of Axtra3D's Hybrid PhotoSynthesis (HPS) technology marks a significant advancement in Protolabs' 3D printing capabilities. This dual-system approach, combining laser and DLP, addresses key limitations in traditional 3D printing processes. The enhanced precision and speed of HPS could potentially disrupt the market, especially in industries requiring high-resolution prototypes or small-batch production runs.

The addition of HPS complements Protolabs' existing Carbon DLS technology, offering a broader spectrum of solutions. This strategic move aligns with the growing demand for production-grade 3D printing, potentially opening new revenue streams in sectors like aerospace, medical devices and consumer electronics. The introduction of engineering-grade materials like Tough Black and Ceramic-filled further strengthens Protolabs' market position, catering to diverse industrial applications.

Market Research Analyst

Protolabs' expansion into advanced photopolymer technology signifies a strategic move to capture a larger share of the rapidly growing additive manufacturing market, projected to reach $51 billion by 2030. By offering HPS alongside Carbon DLS, Protolabs is positioning itself as a one-stop shop for diverse 3D printing needs, potentially increasing customer retention and market share.

The focus on production-grade parts aligns with the industry trend towards end-use 3D printed components, which could drive higher-value contracts and improve profit margins. However, the success of this initiative will depend on Protolabs' ability to effectively market these new capabilities and demonstrate clear ROI for customers transitioning from traditional manufacturing methods to additive technologies.

Financial Analyst

While specific financial figures aren't provided, the expansion of Protolabs' 3D printing capabilities could positively impact its revenue streams. The addition of HPS technology potentially allows Protolabs to tap into higher-margin, specialized manufacturing services. This aligns with the company's strategy to move beyond prototyping into production, which typically offers better economies of scale and recurring revenue opportunities.

Investors should monitor key performance indicators in upcoming quarters, such as changes in average order value and customer acquisition costs. The capital expenditure for implementing this new technology and its impact on short-term profitability will be important factors to consider. Long-term, if successful, this move could strengthen Protolabs' competitive position and drive sustainable growth in the evolving digital manufacturing landscape.

Axtra3D printing capabilities complement digital manufacturer’s advanced photopolymer offering with highly precise and repeatable printed parts in days.

MINNEAPOLIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Digital manufacturing leader Protolabs expanded its 3D printing capabilities today with the launch of an advanced photopolymers technology. Axtra3D Hybrid PhotoSynthesis (HPS) offers highly repeatable and finely detailed 3D printed parts at accelerated speeds. HPS uses both a precision laser and digital light processing (DLP) system to simultaneously image internal and external part structures—a dual 3D printing approach that overcomes traditional limitations.

HPS complements Protolabs’ current Carbon digital light synthesis (DLS) printers for 3D printing projects that require stronger mechanical properties. Both Carbon DLS and HPS feature near-isotropic parts and smooth surface finishes, but HPS technology also offers exceptionally high resolution when compared to other 3D printing processes.

The launch of HPS supports the broader Protolabs strategies to serve more customer needs and continue to expand into production use cases. Common HPS applications include production-grade parts with excellent throughput, parts requiring high-accuracy features for testing and validation, and cosmetic prototypes requiring glass-like surface finishes.

“We are committed to establishing additive manufacturing as a technology that can take companies from prototyping to production,” said Ryan Kees, Protolabs 3D printing global product director. “To help product developers, designers, and engineers do that, Hybrid PhotoSynthesis is another vital production option in our growing toolbox of 3D printing capabilities.”

Currently available HPS materials include Tough Black (Loctite Henkel 3843), an engineering-grade resin with high strength, good impact resistance, and excellent surface finish, and Ceramic-filled (BASF 3280), a material often used for tooling and molding due to its high stiffness. Both materials expand Protolabs’ advanced photopolymer library, adding to the materials already offered for Carbon DLS.

About Protolabs

Protolabs is the fastest and most comprehensive digital manufacturing service in the world. Our digital factories produce low-volume parts in days while Protolabs Network unlocks advanced capabilities and volume pricing through its highly vetted manufacturing partners. The result? One manufacturing source—from prototyping to production—for product developers, engineers, and supply chain teams across the globe. See what's next at protolabs.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240909892648/en/

Media Contact:

Protolabs

Brent Renneke, 763-479-7704

Marketing Communications Manager

brent.renneke@protolabs.com

Investor Relations Contacts:

Protolabs

Ryan Johnsrud, 612-225-4873

Manager, Investor Relations and FP&A

ryan.johnsrud@protolabs.com

Gateway Group, Inc.

949-574-3860

PRLB@gateway-grp.com

Source: Protolabs

FAQ

What new 3D printing technology has Protolabs (PRLB) introduced?

Protolabs has introduced Axtra3D Hybrid PhotoSynthesis (HPS) technology, an advanced photopolymer 3D printing process that offers highly repeatable and finely detailed parts at accelerated speeds.

How does Axtra3D Hybrid PhotoSynthesis (HPS) technology work?

HPS uses both a precision laser and digital light processing (DLP) system to simultaneously image internal and external part structures, overcoming traditional limitations of 3D printing processes.

What are the advantages of Protolabs' new HPS technology for 3D printing?

HPS offers exceptionally high resolution, stronger mechanical properties, near-isotropic parts, smooth surface finishes, and accelerated production speeds compared to other 3D printing processes.

What new materials has Protolabs (PRLB) introduced with the HPS technology?

Protolabs has introduced two new materials for HPS: Tough Black (Loctite Henkel 3843), an engineering-grade resin, and Ceramic-filled (BASF 3280), often used for tooling and molding due to its high stiffness.