Bossard Group has strengthened its competency in additive manufacturing by acquiring a 49% stake in 3d-prototyp GmbH in Stans, with a view to making that a 100% share in the next three years.
The move is the latest in a 3D printing strategy which saw Bossard announce partnerships with three 3D printer manufacturers in spring this year, where it took on representation and distribution for the trio in the Swiss market.
3d-prototyp GmbH has made a name for itself in the additive manufacturing of complex plastic parts and models. The company has competency across the design process; from the draft, via 3D visualisation up to the completed 3D plastic model. 3d-prototyp GmbH also has extensive experience in the 3D scanning of free-form surfaces and complex geometries.
Bossard added that the acquisition provides it with additional practical know-how in additive manufacturing of plastic applications as a development partner and contract manufacturer. Bossard wants to support customers from the design phase through to part production and to advise them on the selection of equipment and associated manufacturing technologies. Over the next few years, it is intended to make further targeted investments in the expansion of design and engineering.
Prototypes & lightweighting
Bossard believes that 3D printing has a future in various areas of manufacturing, including the manufacture of prototypes, components with complex geometries, multi-part assemblies and also parts where weight reduction plays a significant role, such as in the automotive and aerospace industries.
Last but not least, new materials are increasingly being used with 3D printing, and the associated challenges are of interest to Bossard as a global supplier of fastening solutions.
Bossard’s growth track remained on course in its latest quarterly financials, where it saw sales grow 9.3%. Earlier this year it appointed a new manager of its business units in the North and East European regions.