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FABTECH 2015 brings roaring 3-D scanning event to Art Institute of Chicago

FABTECH® 2015, North America’s largest collaboration of technology, equipment, and knowledge in the metal forming, fabricating, welding, and finishing industries, brought 3-D scanning technology to the steps of the Art Institute of Chicago in September.

Exact Metrology, a 3-D scanning systems company, used its Surphaser technology to 3-D scan the museum’s 9-ft.-tall south guardian lion, sculpted by Edward L. Kemeys (1843-1907). The iconic guardian lions have flanked the Art Institute’s Michigan Avenue entrance for more than 100 years and have become a symbol of the museum and city.

With the scanning portion of the project complete, Met-L-Flo Inc., a contract manufacturer specializing in 3-D printing and additive manufacturing services, will use scan data to print 300 small-scale replicas of the lion, which will be on display and used as giveaways at FABTECH.

“At FABTECH we explore new and innovative technology, and 3-D printing is just one example that is driving major change for manufacturers of all types. What better way to celebrate the future of the industry than showcasing this amazing technology in such a special place,” said John Catalano, co-show manager, FABTECH. “Manufacturing is critical to our country, our economy, and our future. It’s an exciting time to be involved in this field as new technologies, processes, and opportunities are truly changing how the industry operates.”

During the event, attendees witnessed the scanning technology firsthand and heard from industry leaders about the process and benefits of 3-D scanning and printing. Ed Youdell, president and CEO of FMA (FABTECH co-sponsor); Dean Solberg, vice president, Exact Metrology; and Carl Dekker, president, Met-L-Flo Inc., also discussed some of the advanced manufacturing technologies that will be showcased at FABTECH 2015, taking place at Chicago’s McCormick Place Nov. 9-12.

To view the scanning event, visit vimeo.com/139732704. To register to attend and find more information about FABTECH 2015, visit www.fabtechexpo.com.