ExOne expands into 3D-printed tooling business with acquisition of Freshmade 3D assets

The ExOne Co., North Huntingdon, Pa., a manufacturer of industrial sand and metal 3D printers using binder jetting technology, has acquired the assets of Freshmade 3D, an Ohio-based startup with a patented method of creating AMClad tooling out of sand forms 3D-printed on ExOne machines. ExOne reports this acquisition will strengthen its position as a provider of large-format, 3D-printed tooling for industrial applications.

After the tooling is 3D-printed, Freshmade infiltrates and coats the tooling using a patented method that eliminates weeks or months of time spent waiting for conventional tooling, according to the company. This method can be used for tooling used in vacuum forming, hydroforming, and sheet metal stamping applications for such industries as aerospace, automotive, and energy.