ExOne acquires company’s technology for 3D printing tooling from sand forms

AMClad tooling is 3D-printed from sand and then infiltrated and coated using Freshmade 3D’s patented method.

ExOne Co. has acquired the assets of Freshmade 3D, an Ohio-based startup with a patented method called AMClad that produces durable tooling from sand forms 3D-printed on ExOne binder-jet machines.

According to ExOne, North Huntingdon, Pa., the move will strengthen its position as a provider of large-format, 3D-printed tooling for industrial applications.

AMClad tooling is 3D-printed from low-cost sand on an ExOne system, and then is infiltrated and coated using Freshmade 3D’s patented method. The technique often eliminates weeks or months required with conventional tooling, claims the manufacturer, and reportedly offers cost savings of 30% to 50%.

AMClad can be used for a range of tooling applications, including composite layups, vacuum forming, compression molds, urethane casting molds, trim fixtures, hydroforming, and sheet metal stamping.