It’s that time of the year again when Manufactur3D takes stock of the top newsmakers of the year and we bring you a sneak peek at some of the key events that shaped the Indian 3D printing industry and present you with the highlights of the year 2023.
We review the year gone by and appreciate the work done by 3D printing companies in offering great products, skilling engineers in 3D printing, creating partnerships, innovating new technologies, helping customers build better products and driving the industry forward.
Indian 3D Printing Industry – Highlights of the Year 2022
Ladakh’s Exploration of 3D Printing in Construction and Machinery Maintenance
In a significant development right at the start of the year, the Ladakh administration announced its investigation into the use of 3D printing technology in machine construction and repair. This initiative, in collaboration with IIT Guwahati, aims to strengthen the capacity of executing agencies in the region. The use of robotic arms in infrastructure, particularly in remote areas, is expected to improve efficiency, increase worker safety, and lower costs. This environmentally friendly technology fits with the vision of a carbon-neutral Ladakh. Interaction with experts from IIT Guwahati provided valuable insights into this emerging technology, fostering knowledge among Ladakh engineers.
Tvasta’s 3D Printed Office in Kolkata
Tvasta Manufacturing Solutions, a 3D printing Startup, created Kolkata’s first 3D printed office at Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Limited (GRSE). This project, which was launched by the Defence Secretary, will serve as a technology demonstrator for GRSE to oversee their anti-submarine warfare projects. The modular site office, which is 180 square feet in size, was built offsite. Modules were printed in 2.5 days and assembled quickly on-site, demonstrating 3D printing’s potential in infrastructure development across multiple sectors.
IIT Tirupati and Kyndryl’s AI-Enabled 3D Printing for Manufacturing
In collaboration with Kyndryl India, IIT Tirupati aims to advance AI-enabled 3D printing technology for the manufacturing sector. This collaboration is centred on developing Machine Learning models to detect potential defects during the 3D printing process. This initiative is expected to result in significant cost and time savings, as well as contribute to new product development, aligning with the goals of India’s National Manufacturing Policy. It is a critical step towards increasing the accessibility and efficiency of smart manufacturing technology.
Hybrid Manufacturing Systems at IMTEX 2023
At IMTEX 2023, a variety of hybrid manufacturing systems combining additive and subtractive technologies were on display. DELTASYS E FORMING’s polymer hybrid manufacturing system, AMS’s metal hybrid system, and Bharat Fritz Werner’s Photon Platforms were among the standouts. These systems improve productivity, make small businesses more affordable, and integrate seamlessly into existing manufacturing operations. Hybrid manufacturing is a significant advancement in 3D printing technology, providing a low-risk entry point for newcomers to the field.
NCAM’s TRIPRAMan Program for Additive Manufacturing Startups
The TRIPRAMan programme was launched by the National Centre for Additive Manufacturing (NCAM) to assist innovative entrepreneurs and startups in the field of additive manufacturing. This initiative seeks to foster innovation in all areas of the value chain, including software, technology, materials, and applications. It is a significant step towards establishing India as a global hub for the development and deployment of additive manufacturing.
Ankit Aerospace’s 3D Printing for Gaganyaan Mission
Ankit Aerospace, a Bengaluru-based aerospace component manufacturer, 3D printed grid fins for India’s Gaganyaan mission using Electron Beam Additive Manufacturing (EBAM) technology. This was one of the highlights of the year 2023 for the 3D printing industry in India.
This is India’s first human space mission, which is scheduled for 2024. The use of titanium in these grid fins increases the safety of the spacecraft. This technology significantly reduces material consumption, demonstrating the potential of additive manufacturing in large-scale space projects and opening up opportunities for other large structures throughout the country.
Midhani’s Metal AM Powder Production
Mishra Dhatu Nigam Limited (Midhani), a public sector enterprise based in Hyderabad, has announced plans to produce metal additive manufacturing powder for aerospace applications. This move aims to strengthen India’s capabilities in the production of nickel and titanium-based alloy powders. MIDHANI, which was founded in 1973, specialises in the manufacture of superalloys, special steels, and magnetic alloys, primarily as import substitutes for strategic sectors. Their involvement in the additive manufacturing sector is a significant step towards India’s defence and strategic sectors’ self-sufficiency in critical materials.
Intech and AMAZEMET Partnership
Intech Additive Solutions, a leading Indian metal 3D printing OEM, has joined forces with AMAZEMET, a European provider of metal AM solutions. This formalised collaboration allows Intech to distribute AMAZEMET products in India, including their RePowder system for powder production, safeEtch for automated support removal and surface finishing, and inFurner for high vacuum furnace applications. This collaboration strengthens Intech’s integrated solutions approach, allowing Indian customers to develop new materials and processes more quickly and with lower investments.
NCAM and France Additive Collaboration
The National Centre for Additive Manufacturing (NCAM) in India signed an MOU with France Additive, establishing a collaborative relationship between the additive manufacturing sectors of the two countries. The collaboration intends to capitalise on each country’s domain expertise, hold joint events, and facilitate technology transfer. This collaboration is expected to accelerate the adoption of additive manufacturing in industries such as aviation, space, automotive, railways, and healthcare, as well as create opportunities for research institutions, SMEs, OEMs, and technology centres in both countries.
India’s First 3D Printed Bridge by IIT Hyderabad and Simpliforge
IIT Hyderabad and Simpliforge Creations created India’s first prototype 3D printed bridge, a significant advancement in construction technology. The bridge was designed using form optimisation principles and 3D printed off-site in less than two hours before being assembled on-site. This project shows how 3D concrete printing has the potential to transform the construction industry, with applications in infrastructure, defence, and disaster management scenarios.
The year 2023 saw a large number of construction 3D printing projects undertaken and successfully completed. The Indian 3D printing industry in construction is surely creating a lot of buzz and has led to many organisations joining the C3DP space.
Anisoprint and Vellon Space’s 3D Printing Collaboration
Anisoprint, a provider of 3D printing technology, collaborated with Vellon Space to investigate Continuous Fibre Reinforced (CFC) 3D printing for space applications. The goal of this collaboration was to use Anisoprint’s composite 3D printing technology to create high-strength, lightweight structures suitable for space’s harsh environment. Anisoprint’s continuous fibre method, used in their Composer series printers, has the potential to revolutionise the manufacturing of space structures by leveraging the unique properties of composite materials.
Skyroot Aerospace’s 3D Printed Cryogenic Engine
Skyroot Aerospace, a leading Indian private aerospace company, has successfully fired the Dhawan-II, a fully 3D printed cryogenic engine. This engine, created for the Vikram-II rocket, demonstrated the effectiveness of 3D printed structures in improving payload-carrying capabilities in rocket upper stages. The engine, which used environmentally friendly fuels, demonstrated the potential of 3D printing in advancing cryogenic technologies in India’s private space sector. This was one of the important highlights of the year 2023 for the 3D printing industry in India as we saw a wider acceptance and use of 3D printing by aerospace companies.
STPL 3D’s MoU with NCAM
The National Centre for Additive Manufacturing (NCAM) and Sahajanand Technologies Private Limited (STPL 3D), a company known for its industrial technology solutions, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding. This collaboration aimed to establish a self-sustaining ecosystem for additive manufacturing in India, with the goal of increasing industry adoption, product prototyping, and new product development. STPL 3D’s expertise in additive manufacturing complements NCAM’s commitment to product innovation in India.
Garuda3D’s High-Speed Industrial Grade IDEX 3D Printer
Hyderabad-based Garuda3D introduced the DP500, an industrial-grade high-speed Independent Dual Extruder (IDEX) 3D printer. This printer can produce carbon fibre and production-ready parts. It is suitable for industrial applications due to its advanced features such as a high-flow hot-end, extruder for precise material deposition, and fast-heating AC bed. The DP500 is a significant advancement in industrial 3D printing, and it has the potential to be a game changer in the additive manufacturing industry.
DELTASYS E FORMING’s Concrete 3D Printer to IIT Hyderabad
The Department of Design at IIT Hyderabad acquired a concrete 3D printer from DELTASYS E FORMING. This collaboration aims to transform the design and production of home furnishings, interior decor, and exterior decorations. The precise layering capability of the concrete 3D printer provides distinct advantages in interior and architectural design. IIT Hyderabad intends to use this technology for sustainable fabrication research and development, potentially transforming the realms of interior and exterior design.
CECRI and Monotech Systems’ Collaboration for Additive Manufacturing
Monotech Systems Limited collaborated with the CSIR-Central Electrochemical Research Institute (CSIR-CECRI) to create a raw material supply chain for additive manufacturing. This collaboration entails the transfer of technologies for carbon-coated polymer materials as well as the fabrication of indigenous 3D printable polymer composite filaments.
In line with the “ATHMANIRBHAR BHARAT” mission, this initiative aims to develop newer metal and polymer materials for additive manufacturing as import substitutes, fostering the growth of local supply chains and enhancing India’s additive manufacturing capabilities.
World’s First 3D Printed Temple in India
Apsuja Infratech and Simpliforge Creations collaborated to build the world’s first 3D printed temple in Siddipet, Telangana’s Charvitha Meadows. This architectural marvel is 3,800 square feet in size and features three sanctums dedicated to Hindu deities. The temple demonstrates the potential of 3D construction printing in creating intricate, sustainable structures by utilising a custom extrusion system and software developed by Simpliforge. The project demonstrates India’s global dominance in 3D printed architecture.
National Centre for Additive Manufacturing’s New Facility
The National Centre for Additive Manufacturing (NCAM) officially opened a new cutting-edge facility at Osmania University in Hyderabad. This centre aims to be a hub for additive manufacturing in India, with this technology contributing significantly to the country’s GDP. The facility is the result of a collaborative effort between the government and academia to foster additive manufacturing innovation, thereby supporting India’s goal of becoming self-sufficient (AtmaNirbhar).
DLE and Sedaxis Partnership for AM Prototyping
The Drone Logistics Ecosystem (DLE) has formed a partnership with Sedaxis Advanced Materials to investigate the use of additive manufacturing (AM) in prototyping and manufacturing for the drone delivery industry. This collaboration gives DLE members access to Sedaxis’ expertise in composites and additive manufacturing for drone design enhancement and performance optimisation, demonstrating the potential of additive manufacturing in transforming traditional manufacturing processes.
Matrix Moon’s Acquisition of EXT Titan Pellet 3D Printer
Matrix Moon, an additive manufacturing training centre and 3D Systems reseller in India, has purchased an EXT 1070 Titan Pellet 3D printer. On the same machine, this printer can perform hybrid additive and subtractive manufacturing processes. The acquisition of Matrix Moon is expected to transform manufacturing workflows in India, increasing the speed of innovation while decreasing costs.
Tvasta’s 3D Printed Building in Kerala
Tvasta, a Chennai-based building technology startup, has begun construction on Kerala’s first 3D printed building in PTP Nagar’s Nirmithi Kendra. The 350-square-foot one-room demo house is intended to demonstrate the efficiency of 3D printing in building construction. This project exemplifies Tvasta’s commitment to using 3D printing technology to revolutionise the construction industry.
Meltio and IRTI Robotics’ Partnership
Meltio, a manufacturer of laser metal deposition technology, collaborated with IRTI Robotics to expand the Indian metal 3D printing market. The Meltio Engine Robot solution will be integrated and supported by IRTI Robotics, bringing advanced metal 3D printing solutions to various sectors in India. This collaboration is expected to facilitate the adoption of metal additive manufacturing in India’s rapidly growing economy.
IIT Madras Certificate Course on 3D Printing
The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) will launch an online certificate course in 3D printing technologies for practicing engineers in 2023, addressing the industry’s shortage of skilled professionals.
The course is designed for engineers, scientists, and medical professionals with a bachelor’s degree and work experience and is offered by the Centre for Outreach and Digital Education (CODE). The curriculum, which spans 96 hours and includes recorded videos and live sessions, covers various aspects of 3D printing, such as design, materials, and post-processing. Despite its certification status, the course costs Rs. 1 lakh plus 18% GST, with an early bird discount and payment plans available.
India’s First 3D Printed Post Office in Bengaluru
In 2023, India will inaugurate its first 3D printed post office in Bengaluru. Larsen & Toubro Limited completed the project in a record 43 days, using technology from IIT Madras. The 1,021-square-foot structure demonstrates the efficiency of 3D concrete printing, resulting in a 30-40% cost savings over traditional methods.
This breakthrough paves the way for future low-cost postal infrastructure, which could eventually reach 400 locations. The project, which has received Prime Ministerial attention, represents a significant step forward in India’s journey towards innovative construction technologies.
Make3D Pratham X: Made-in-India 3D Printer
Make3D, an Indian 3D printer manufacturer, has announced the Pratham X will be available in 2023. This low-cost, high-volume, industrial-grade FDM 3D printer has a build volume of 1000 x 1000 x 600 mm, meeting the growing demand for precision large-format printing.
The Pratham X weighs 250 kg and includes essential features such as a filament sensor, automatic bed levelling, and an intuitive touchscreen. Pratham X, with its sturdy all-metal body and high precision components, aims to redefine 3D printing for engineering applications by including advanced features such as a heated build plate and power failure job protection.
Ambassador Visits Altem’s 3D Innovation Centre
In September 2023, Altem Technologies, a leader in 3D printing and scanning, hosted Luxembourg’s Ambassador to India at its Bangalore 3D Innovation Centre. Artec3D advanced 3D scanners and various industrial 3D printers were on display during the visit. Altem emphasised the importance of 3D scanning in custom prosthetics, orthotics, and cultural heritage preservation, such as digitising ancient inscription stones. This collaboration between Altem and Artec3D Luxembourg exemplifies the company’s commitment to 3D technology innovation, which will benefit both healthcare and historical preservation in India.
Formlabs Price Reduction for Form 3+ 3D Printer in India
Formlabs announced a 30% price reduction for its Form 3+ 3D Printer in India in 2023. The Form 3+, a highly regarded SLA-based 3D printer, is known for its accuracy and ease of use in applications such as rapid prototyping. In an economic downturn, this price reduction reflects Formlabs’ commitment to making advanced 3D printing technology more accessible in the Indian market. The Form 3+ will be sold through Formlabs’ partner network, with prices starting at Rs. 2.14 lakhs excluding taxes and fees.
IISc 3D Printing Construction Materials
In 2023, researchers at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) developed innovative 3D printing construction materials with the goal of lowering carbon emissions from the building industry. These materials, which use industrial by-products such as construction waste, blast furnace slag, and fly ash, can store 35-40% of CO2 and are suitable for walls, slabs, and other components. This advancement is consistent with India’s commitment to net-zero emissions, and it provides a sustainable alternative capable of replacing 75% of natural sand in cement-based materials, reducing reliance on mined resources and energy-intensive processes.
Make3D EKA XL – A New Mid-Range DLP 3D Printer
Make3D, an Indian 3D printer manufacturer, has released the EKA XL, a mid-range DLP 3D printer aimed at the jewellery industry. This low-cost EKA HT model includes innovative heating glass tray technology, which improves resin viscosity and adhesion for smoother printing. EKA XL supports both castable and non-castable resins, with a build volume of 125x70x140 mm and layer resolution down to 20 microns. A UV curing oven, resin tray, resin, onsite training, and shipping are all included in the printer’s package. Make3D’s commitment to providing detailed, precision-oriented 3D printing solutions for jewellery, moulds, sculptures, engineering parts, and prototypes is demonstrated by EKA XL.
IIT Mandi’s Powder-Based Metal Extrusion 3D Printing
IIT Mandi researchers created mFFF/FDMet, a new powder-based metal extrusion 3D printing technology that is superior and more cost-effective than existing metal 3D printing methods. The technology uses fine metal powders to create robust metal components, allowing for greater design freedom and safety at a lower cost. Filament fabrication, 3D printing, debinding, sintering, and post-processing are all part of the mFFF/FDMet process. This development aims to break foreign companies’ monopolies in metal 3D printing and provide local producers with independent technology development for mass production of metal parts.
NCAM and SP3D’s MoU to Accelerate Additive Manufacturing in India
Spare Parts 3D (SP3D) and the National Centre for Additive Manufacturing (NCAM) have signed an agreement to accelerate the adoption of additive manufacturing in India. The collaboration enables Indian industries facing spare parts supply chain challenges to digitalize their inventory. SP3D brings expertise in part identification and digital inventory, whereas NCAM focuses on the development of India’s additive manufacturing ecosystem.
This collaboration aims to reduce the carbon footprint of manufacturing, develop local additive manufacturing skills, and consolidate the Indian AM value chain. It is a significant step towards redefining Indian industries’ production, maintenance, and supply chain resilience.
AJAX Engineering’s 3D Concrete Printing Machine in Bengaluru
AJAX Engineering, a well-known Indian manufacturer of concrete equipment, unveiled its 3D Concrete printing machine, marking its entry into the 3D printing industry. The machine demonstrated its capabilities by erecting a 350-square-meter house in three days.
The AJAX 3D printer, designed for large-scale applications, is versatile enough to create a variety of structures, including villas and sculptures. The APX 1.0 model can construct structures up to 10 metres in length, width, and height, demonstrating the company’s commitment to construction innovation and sustainability. AJAX intends to make significant investments in Karnataka to support its growth and contribute to the advancement of the Indian construction industry.
Godrej Construction’s Concrete 3D Printed Office near Lonavala
Godrej Construction, a subsidiary of Godrej & Boyce, has completed ‘The Cocoon,’ a concrete 3D printed office near Lonavala, Maharashtra. The 500-square-foot office, built in just 40 hours using prefabricated modules and sustainable materials such as recycled concrete aggregates, exemplifies the potential of 3D Construction Printing Technology. The project included extensive construction tasks, demonstrating Godrej’s commitment to pushing architectural design and construction timelines. ‘The Cocoon’ is a product of Godrej’s research into 3D Construction Printing Technology, which has previously been used for bus shelters and security pavilions, and represents a significant advancement in efficient and sustainable construction practices.
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