Trumpf re-enters additive manufacturing market through JV operation with Italian partner Sisma

The company, Trumpf Sisma S.r.l., is based in Piovene Rocchette, near Vicenza, Italy, and is owned 55-45% between Trumpf and Sisma respectively. Via this operation, the pair say they plan to co-develop latest-generation production systems for the 3D printing of metal components. The venture has production additive manufacturing in its sights, not mere prototyping. Says Dr Peter Leibinger, head of Trumpf Laser Technology: "Many machines on the market today are aimed more at prototype construction. In the future, however, the most important criterion where additive manufacturing lines are concerned will be their suitability for industrial applications." The two partners have history in this technology area. Trumpf entered the additive manufacturing sector as a pioneer back in the year 2000. Its 'TrumaForm' was, says the company, ahead of its time as the market for serial production of components was not developed. At the start of this year, Trumpf entered the additive manufacturing business again, and says it is now benefiting from the results of earlier development work, as well as from its increasing expertise in the related process of laser deposition welding, which is already being used today in many sectors for repair and coating applications. Sisma developed an additive manufacturing machine for the production of small metallic components several years ago, and the Italian company is bringing this expertise to the joint venture. The target markets for Sisma are primarily jewellery, fashion, dental and industry. With annual sales of €33 million and around 1,000 laser devices sold each year, Sisma is the biggest laser manufacturer in Italy. It has around 130 employees and a history stretching back over 50 years. Trumpf is the world's largest metalworking machinery maker, having global sales of over €2.3 billion.