ASX-listed 3D metal printing developer, Aurora Labs, has successfully completed the first phase print parameter testing of its RMP-1 printer as it powers ahead toward commercial readiness of the printer by the end of this financial year.
Aurora’s patented Multi-Layer Concurrent Printing, or “MCP” technology already allows for the 3D printing of multiple layers of powders in a single pass, up to 55 times faster than printing layer upon layer as per other additive manufacturing processes.
The company said these latest high power, high density printing results demonstrate the fact its Rapid Manufacturing Technology can significantly outperform its competitor’s laser bed fusion printers.
Aurora’s patented Multi-Layer Concurrent Printing, or “MCP” technology already allows for the 3D printing of multiple layers of powders in a single pass, up to 55 times faster than printing layer upon layer as per other additive manufacturing processes.
Aurora can currently print in a range of metals, including various grades of stainless steel and aluminium, plus bronze and titanium.
Its latest testing program, conducted on 316L-grade stainless steel, consistently printed with a density greater than 99 per cent across the full laser power range of the printer and produced material properties compliant with ASTM’s international materials benchmark testing standards.
The company completed around 600 metallurgical specimens, including test cubes, tensile bars and thin walled parts across a range of printer parameters, including both low and high laser power levels.
Aurora claims to have achieved much higher power levels that most commercially available powder bed fusion printers with its RMP-1 Beta prototype.
Aurora Labs CEO, Peter Snowsill said:
“We are pleased to have completed the first phase of our Technology Development Pathway and the team is very encouraged by the test outcomes. We see these results as foundational to demonstrating the performance required to achieve commercial readiness for RMP-1. We are geared up for the coming quarter for the implementation phase of our extraction system upgrade as another key enabler for commercial success.”
Since the Perth-based company switched its 3D metal printing business strategy from an aspiring manufacturer and direct distributor to a partnership, technology licencing and royalty model - with less CAPEX and OPEX pressure - it has also locked up patents in Japan and China.
Now, with its saddlebags full of cash following a recent, over-subscribed $3m capital raising, and a couple of patents tucked in its belt, Aurora is chasing partnerships with established manufacturers and distributors in various localities.
Aurora has already struck a couple of partnerships, one with Sweden-based rolled aluminium manufacturer, Granges AB, and another with Advisian Digital, a consulting arm of engineering, procurement and construction stalwart Worley Ltd.
The next 6 months appears to be a pivotal time for this ASX-listed high tech small cap. But the accumulation of partnerships and patents and the ongoing success of its product development would seem to have it well placed for what lies ahead.
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