Velo3D positions itself as "The Only True American Metal 3D Printer Manufacturer"
The Atomic Layers: S6E16 (00163)
Atomic Layer of the Day:
On December 24, 2024, Christmas Eve, Velo3D announced a financial restructuring and leadership changes at the highest level. The company, which had been struggling with significant financial issues for over a year, received last-minute support from a relatively unknown firm, Arrayed Additive, whose CEO, Arun Jeldi, has been appointed the new CEO of Velo3D.
Arrayed Additive allegedly specializes in 3D printing with aluminum and magnesium alloys—a rare accomplishment in the industry. Several commentators, including
at VoxelMatters, have speculated whether this signals a new direction for the company? Velo3D and magnesium 3D printing? That does sound intriguing.However, it seems the company’s new strategy is different—simpler, but perfectly aligned with the current political climate in the U.S.
In my opinion, Velo3D is set to become the “national manufacturer of 3D printers.”
Let me explain…
Today, Matt Karesh, until recently Director of Business Development and Sales, announced his new, highly prestigious role at Velo3D as “Director of Defense and Government Programs.” And just a day earlier, Karesh posted this statement on LinkedIn:
“Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery that mediocrity can pay to greatness”
- Oscar WildeVelo3D was proudly founded in the #usa, developed in the #usa, headquartered in the #usa, manufactured in the #usa, supported from the #usa, and the list goes on.
Velo3D has also never sold to and will never sell to adversarial nations like China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, etc.
There is no question who the true #American laser powder bed fusion company is.
#madeinamerica
Emphasizing the American origin of its products and excluding sales to countries deemed hostile could be seen as an attempt to position Velo3D as “the only truly American 3D printer manufacturer”. This approach aligns closely with the policies of the Donald Trump administration, which emphasized strengthening domestic manufacturing and reducing cooperation with competing nations.
It also serves as an indirect jab at Nikon SLM Solutions, which last year opened a 3D printer factory in the U.S. (more on that tomorrow), and particularly at Chinese Farsoon Technologies (which has operated in the U.S. since 2016), and BLT (which is now entering the U.S. market).
In some respects, it’s also aimed at 3D Systems, which historically entered metal 3D printing through the acquisition of European companies in France (Phenix Systems) and Belgium (LayerWise).
It will be interesting to see how Velo3D’s journey unfolds this year.
The return of key employees like Michelle Sidwell, who previously served as Chief Revenue Officer at Velo3D, and the support of its new owner offer hope for the company’s brighter future. Velo3D plans to focus on delivering comprehensive solutions, encompassing both printing systems and ready-made parts, aiming to attract clients from the defense, aerospace, and space industries.
Despite its financial struggles in 2024, Velo3D has a chance to rebuild its position in the industry. Restructuring efforts and a new strategy may help. The coming months will reveal whether Velo3D can overcome its challenges?
Atomic Layer from the Past:
01-16-2024: Synopsys announced the acquisition of Ansys in a $35 billion transaction—the biggest tech deal of the year.
News & Gossip:
The ATILA research project, led by AIDIMME and funded by Spain’s Ministry of Science and Innovation and the EU, has achieved a breakthrough in 3D printing biomedical implants using Meltio’s DED-LB/M technology with titanium welding wire. This innovative approach reduces waste and environmental impact compared to powder-based methods. Researchers developed prototypes of various implants, including cranial plates and hip components, and studied the mechanical properties of Ti6Al4V. Future steps involve in vivo and in vitro testing. Meltio’s webinar showcased these advancements, emphasizing the potential of wire-fed 3D printing in healthcare, marking a significant milestone in sustainable medical manufacturing.
SOLIZE Corporation is now the sole distributor of Roboze 3D printing systems in Japan, starting with the installation of an ARGO 500 HYPERSPEED at Toyota Plant. Applications for verification and manufacturing support begin in March 2025. The partnership will be officially announced at TCT Japan from January 29-31.
As reported by Fabbaloo, Stratasys informed customers via email of a 3% price increase for parts, labor, and select materials in 2025 due to rising costs. Service contracts and printer prices remain unchanged. Stratasys encourages customers to consider service plans for added cost benefits.